This is a piece of jewelry or some such, is it not? Or a dead sea horse. On a piece of black fabric? I ask because on my entirely too bright monitor (cheap though it may be) I can see the texture of the black fabric.
Nice graphic impact. I would never have guessed this was yours, Steve. Interesting to see your entry in the challenge idea you championed! Technically, I'm curious to know how big was the sea horse? The ones I've seen are generally about half an inch "tall."
7 - I love these creatures, but don't feel this image fully does them justice, especially in an artistic sense (detail, clarity, exposure (fairly minor) composition/crop (stronger be better in my opinion) - there are also some issues in the background/something that are visible. But personal taste. On second thoughts - up to 7 from 6. I like the potential.
I'm pretty sure I've seen something similar to this on display in an exhibit, its an interesting shot and the contrast is excellent. Interesting subject too...
Might be interesting razor-sharp, with an aspect ratio that complements the shape of the animal, and without the border. I could see it as very popular wall art. Your b/w is effective for this subject. Very nice. (But are you invested in this photograph, does it equal "fine art"? Who do I think you are, with this?)