this is a great pic. I think what's happening is most of the above. I've paid a semi-indifferent amount of interest to hit counts, and I've noticed that bright, 'warm' colors get more hits than 'cool' colors (among other things..I think too much..;) while this is of superior quality, the eyes graze over the greens, etc., especially if your preference is set to 18 images a page (I look at everything..well, almost..;)
As a sort of experiment, I posted a nearly identical picture with the model facing left (about 30 hits in 4 days), and facing front (67 hits in 1 day). The fact that the characters are facing away from the viewer puts a slight emotional distance, which may not reach out and grab you. Something as simple as a shepherd boy looking back might have boosted things, if you're into that sort of thing.
I wouldn't worry about it. Not everyone has a good grasp of good art (in some of the galleries, names we won't mention, some of the fans more likely have a grasp on something else..'nuff said). You're doing good work, so don't stop. Remember, the only person you really have to please is yourself..take care.

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)