Pulvis Et Umbra

Vision: The ashen brush strokes display the theme of dust and shadow you had intended. They are a fantastic effect.
I feel that you laid the wall/floor division line a little too thick on the canvas, however (I can say the same of the dividing line on the wall as well).
Had it not been for that single issue, I would have given this a perfect score in the "vision" category.

Originality: While your application of Latin symbolism is an admirable attribute to this piece, it needs to be applied with a little more subtly to transcend into the avant-garde realm of art, but that is merely my opinion.

Technique: I can see allot of effort here. The brush strokes carry a "charcoal drawing" feel, and it's absolutely outstanding, especially with the "smeared" tail.
The wood of the fire is something that needs a bit of touching up on; it lacks texture in comparison to the creature.

Impact: Sadly, the issues with the vision and technique categories carry onto The Taller Shadow's impact. As it is right now, it does leave an impression on me. I do believe that impression could have been much better.

Overall: This picture is most worthy, despite a few issues with the immersion qualities of the scenery. Good job.