Overview
Design by George Nelson, 1947.
By Modernica.
The Bubble Lamp range from designer George Nelson was originally designed in 1947 and produced through the late 1970's. This inventive collection of lights features dimensional shapes in soft white polymer over steel framing. One of the most defining lighting collections in mid-century modern design, it boasts lasting appeal and quality construction.
The rounded tubular form of Nelson's Cigar Lamp nestles in a low, three pronged stand to create this unique table lamp. Reissued by Modernica to its original specifications, using the original Howard Miller tooling. Part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Offered in three sizes.
Available options may differ from photo.
The original Bubble Lamp was inspired by a self webbing material used to moth-ball ships in mid-20th century New York. Nelson thought the material would be a perfect fit for lighting, and quickly produced the first prototype by adding the material to a steel frame. One of the many unmistakable descendants of that first lamp, the Bubble Cigar Lamp with Stand is produced with its original Nelson specifications. Offers abundant, even light. Manufactured domestically.
Notes:
Made in the U.S.A.
Specifications
Material(s): Polymer, steel
Dimensions:
- Small with Stand 15.8" H x 10" Dia
- Medium with Stand 23.5" H x 11.5" Dia
- Large with Stand 35" H x 14" Dia
Bulbs: 1 X 150W medium incandescent bulb (not included)
Models
CIGARSTAND
Very cool design!
By: Laurie, Homeowner (Washington, DC)
The Bubble Cigar Lamp is well-designed and is accurately portrayed on the website. It uses a standard light bulb and gives off a nice (bright) white glow. Perfect for lighting a smaller space on its own. The only potential downside is that the lamp initially had an odd scent; this, however, seems to have faded and after a couple of weeks, is no longer an issue for me.
Designer: George Nelson
When writing about the course of his remarkable 50-year career, George Nelson described a series of creative "zaps" — moments of out-of-the-blue inspiration "when the solitary individual finds he is connected with a reality he never dreamed of."
Nelson said that for a designer to deal creatively with human needs, "he must first make a radical, conscious break with all values he identifies as antihuman." Designers also must constantly be aware of the consequences of their actions on people and society. In fact, he declared that "total design is nothing more or less than a process of relating everything to everything." So he said that rather than specializing, designers must cultivate a broad base of knowledge and understanding.
Nelson did so as few are able, and, with the help of well-timed zaps, he helped define modern, humane design.
View other products by George Nelson Manufacturer: George Nelson Bubble Lamps
Mid-century classics designed by George Nelson. George Nelson Bubble Lamps are part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Modernica produces the classic Bubble Lamps according to George Nelson's 1947 specifications using the original Howard Miller tooling.
View other products from George Nelson Bubble Lamps