Legal Question in Consumer Law in District of Columbia

I'm assuming that the painting was already complete at the time of your purchase or should have been complete now that it's 8 months later. Plain and simply, if you paid for a product (the painting) and you didn't receive the benefit of your bargain, the other party is in breach of contract. In theory, they could also be liable criminally for theft, conversion, etc. If I were in your shoes, if you have not done so already, I would write a letter (certified or overnight delivery so you can track it) to the owner of the painting stating they have 2 weeks to deliver the paintining you purchased or return the money you rightfully paid in full. If the owner does not comply, I would hire a DC lawyer who can file a lawsuit on your behalf and either get a court order forcing the other party to turn over the painting or return your money.

Best of luck.*****The above is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client privilege.*****