By Omar Majzoub

There is a lot on the line Sunday when the Denver Broncos take on the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLVIII in New Jersey. Although the Vince Lombardi Trophy is the most prized possession of the game, two art museums in the competing cities have decided to make a bet of their own.

In a unique blend of sports and fine arts, the Denver Art Museum (DAM) and the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) are betting temporary loans of major artworks based on the outcome of the game. The winning city will receive a three-month loan of the work of art, where they are free to display it in anyway, but dates of the loan are still being finalized.

The DAM has wagered a statue known as “The Bronco Buster” by Frederic Remington. It is a bronzed icon of a man riding a Bronco and located in the western American art collection in Denver. Christoph Heinrich, one of the DAM directors, believes the work of art is a perfect representation of their tough, smart football team.

“We know the Broncos won’t be busted on Super Bowl Sunday,” Heinrich said. “I am looking forward to giving the losing team’s mascot a special place of honor in Bronco Nation.”

Meanwhile, the SAM is wagering a treasure from their Asian Art collection. It is called “Sound of Waves” by Tsuji Kako and features a powerful eagle with outstretched wings. SAM director Kimerly Rorschah hopes it is her museum that is able to enjoy the winnings after the big game.

‘Sound of Waves’ is a masterpiece from our great Japanese art collection and a reflection of Seattle’s close connection to Asia,” Rorschach said. “But we are still confident that The Bronco Buster will be heading to Seattle.”

All shipping and expenses will be paid by the city that loses the big game. Although the football game will get most of the headlines, the museums are hoping the bet is another reason for the two cities to rally behind their teams.

“We are looking forward to this cultural exchange and giving the stunning screen a place of honor in our Asian art galleries,” Heinrich said. “The DAM is thrilled to support the community and get behind the Bronco Nation.”

However, Rorschach and other Seahawks fans, which have become known as the “12th Man”, are confident in their football teams chances to win.

“We are already making plans to host it here in Seattle so that the 12th Man can see it,” said Rorschach. “It is a very exciting time for fans of sports and fine arts in both cities.”

The Seahawks, 15-3, are representing the NFC after beating the New Orleans Saints and San Francisco 49ers in the playoffs. The Broncos, also 15-3, will represent the AFC after handling the San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots. Kickoff for the big game is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Sunday.