I'd have to say that this is one of the nicest B&W images that I've seen.
To me it looks like an old B&W painting, or one of those old line blocks that were used in books before the invention of the rosette and stippled plate making methods.

You mentioned that you have the ability to see in B&w?
Well that's difinitely an ability that I don't posses, and I would have to say that in this case it has paid off well.

The colour version is quite attractive as well,

Cheers,