joint issues Austria Fireworks Hong Kong - Austria / II. Republic of Austria 2006

With the application of the so-called "Crystal Fabrics", a worldwide unique invention of the Austrian company Swarovski, an innovative philatelic collector product could be created on the two brands of the block. The incidence of light breaking in the crystal creates a glitter that is completely new on postage stamps. The illustrated fireworks receive thereby a special liveliness. The sight of fireworks causes most people - regardless of their cultural background - amazement and emotion. Whether on New Year's Eve, on national holidays, or on other occasions - fireworks are always an expression of festivity and uplifting sentiment. Hong Kong Post and Österreichische Post jointly present a block with two brands on the subject of fireworks. It is the seventh joint edition of brands that Hong Kong is launching with other postal companies. A brand of the block shows the Panaromablick on the Victoria Harbor of Hong Kong, one of the most famous natural ports in the world. The island of Hong Kong and the Kowloon peninsula, which border the harbor basin on both sides, are enchanting. At the same time the night sky is illuminated by a colorful fireworks display. Thus, this magnificent city lives up to its reputation as the "Pearl of the Orient". The second brand presents an Austrian specialty: a firework display in the Vienna Prater. The former hunting area of ​​the Austrian royal house was made public in 1766 as a recreational area for the Viennese population. The serene mood of the amusement park is perfectly reflected in the fireworks that light up over it. In the foreground of the brand is the Ferris Wheel, the oldest in the world and the landmark of the city of Vienna, erected in 1897 for the 50th anniversary of the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I. In 1945 it was largely destroyed and after its reconstruction a public attraction of the first order ,