I really like the color choices. I looked at the mini for quite a while before reading the comments so I was a bit surprised to see that they drew so much notice. I think perhaps they did because you drew attention to them in your introduction of the piece. I dig \'em, though.
Anyway, I like your painting a lot. Very smooth. One thing that did draw my attention and that I can offer as critique is that I think he could benefit from some deeper shadows around/under the items tucked into his belt. I could be the lighting for the photo but I think they would really \'pop\' with a little stronger contrast.
That said, I dig the mini. Nicely done! =)
-Andy
PS: Avast! I love all the pirate minis lately!!!