SWAROVSKI. Austria, late 20th century. "Flamingo" and "Grey Heron". Two figures in faceted Swarovski crystal in various shades. Signed on the reverse of the base. Provenance: Private collection, Spain between 1970-1990. Measurements: 15.5 x 5 x 9 cm (flamingo); 15 x 4.5 x 7 cm (heron). The Austrian firm Swarovski is dedicated to the creation of products made from crystal, a wide range that includes sculptures, crystal miniatures for jewellery and haute couture, interior decoration, candlesticks and 'rhinestones' (a type of diamond-like stone) 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.