SWAROVSKI, late 19th century. "Pair of birds". Faceted cut crystal. With Swarovski stamp on the side. Provenance: Private collection, Spain between 1970-1990. Measurements: 6 cm (height) x 9 cm (largest diameter). Pair of figures made in translucent, satin and faceted Swarovski crystal, representing two small birds drinking water from a bowl. The Austrian firm Swarovski is dedicated to the creation of products made of crystal, a wide range that includes sculptures, crystal miniatures for jewellery and haute couture, interior decoration, candlesticks and rhinestones for manufacturers and artists. The company was founded by Daniel Swarovski (1862-1956), who in 1892 invented a revolutionary machine that allowed crystal to be cut with greater precision than that obtained by hand-cutting. Three years later he set up his own factory in Wattens (Tyrol), and in 1931 he launched the first line of bows with small cut crystals sewn into them, thus entering the fashion accessories market. In 1956, shortly before his death, Swarovski, together with Christian Dior, developed the "Aurora Borealis" effect, a shimmering finish that enhances the brilliance of the cut crystal.