This photo is a black and white still life made by American photographer Edward Weston. Edward uses unique composition and dramatic lighting presented this pepper. The high contrast of light and shadow created interesting shape on the surface. The reflection of light gives the pepper a skin texture look on the surface. The pepper is placed in a round container that is facing the camera which created a curved foreground. Visually connect with the body of pepper and draw the eye to the main subject.
I like your analogy to skin texture. Good observations of contrast and lighting.