Vicke Lindstrand 'Bird Cage' Prism

A large engraved sculpture from Vicke Lindstrand's 'Prism' series for Kosta, Sweden, circa 1965. 

This brilliantly clear glass prism has been hand-engraved with birds. The design makes use of the naturally reflective properties within a prism; the birds are reflected within, creating a different three-dimensional scene from each of the object's three sides. 

Vicke Lindstrand is a prominent figure in the history of Scandinavian glass. He is best regarded for his contributions to the success experienced by Orrefors glassworks during the 'Swedish Grace' movement of the 1930's. Lindstrand's engraved pieces from this era display highly naturalistic neoclassical figures, and include some of the most important examples of Swedish glass ever created. 

His later engraved pieces, for Kosta, such as this piece, are often narrative and whimsical, featuring stylised animals and figures. A large example of Lindstrand's engraved glass from this later period can be found in the collection of the British Museum.