BOULDER, COLO.- Collectors and enthusiasts of Pre-Columbian art will soon have the opportunity to acquire an extraordinary artifact: a Chavín/Paracas Janiform Stirrup Vessel, dating back to ca. 800–200 BCE. This rare piece will be featured in the upcoming Artemis Fine Arts auction, taking place on October 2, 2025, in Louisville, Colorado. With an estimated value of $4,500 to $6,500, the vessel represents not only a unique artistic achievement but also a tangible connection to the ancient civilizations of the Andes.

Symbol of Duality and Power

The vessel, carved from blackware with painted geometric borders in red and cream, embodies a janiform design—two human faces sculpted back-to-back. Each face is rendered with almond-shaped eyes and pursed lips, creating an image of mirrored duality.

In Andean cosmology, such imagery was highly symbolic. The dual faces are believed to represent balance, life and death, and the interplay of opposing forces. These concepts were central to the Chavín and Paracas traditions, which flourished during the Early Horizon period.

A Fusion of Traditions

What makes this artifact especially remarkable is its blend of two distinct cultural influences. The stirrup spout, thick and cylindrical, reflects Chavín innovation, designed to minimize evaporation while facilitating ritual pouring. In contrast, the decorative incisions and pigments echo the Paracas tradition, where painted designs played a crucial role in ceramic expression.

This cultural overlap highlights a moment of transition in ancient Peru, when Chavín’s religious dominance gave way to more localized artistic styles. For collectors, the vessel embodies not just beauty but also a story of cultural exchange and innovation.

Authentication and Provenance

The vessel has undergone thermoluminescence (TL) testing, confirming its authenticity and ancient origin. It also comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring peace of mind for bidders.

Its provenance is equally distinguished. Formerly part of the Jack Bregman collection in New York—acquired before 1969 during his time in the Peace Corps—the piece later passed through Arte Primitivo in New York before joining a private Colorado collection. This long, traceable history adds further credibility and value.