0_0
From the thumbnail, I thought this was 3D art. Then, when I saw the whole thing, I thought it was a photo. Finally, I saw the descriptor "Illustration" ... (!)
That said, the signs that this is illustrated are sparse and subtle, and don't at all detract from the picture. The facial details are priceless, and the chosen colors provide fantastic contrast. I won't say it's perfect, because nothing is, but the quality of this work is 10 times better than the average submission here on NG.