Herman Miller
Nelson Bubble Lamp - Lantern on Tripod
Best sculptural accent for lovers of mid-century modern ambient lighting.
The Nelson Lantern Tripod Lamp, designed by George Nelson, offers a soft, glowing light with its unique translucent shade inspired by his iconic Bubble Lamp. This engineering marvel features an organic shape atop a three-legged base, crafted with a plastic polymer shade and a steel frame. Its brushed, nickel-plated steel details add a touch of modern elegance. Perfect for any space, it provides ambient illumination and serves as a sculptural piece of art. The lamp is produced in collaboration with the George Nelson Foundation, ensuring authentic design.
$595.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
257
/ 2105
#257 in Accent Tables
Price vs Category Average
-16%
Below average
Height
12.25
/ in
Who it's for
- Minimalists needing stable, sculptural lighting with a lightweight visual footprint
- Mid-century design enthusiasts seeking an iconic, authentic statement piece
- Homeowners wanting soft, atmospheric lighting for relaxing living spaces
Who should skip it
- People requiring flexible, height-adjustable lighting for dynamic room layouts
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable, everyday accent lighting
- Families with young children or pets prone to accidental damage
Performance breakdown
Design Authenticity
Produced with the George Nelson Foundation for guaranteed mid-century design integrity.
Ambient Illumination
Translucent polymer shade creates a soft, diffused glow for atmospheric lighting.
Build Quality
Sturdy steel frame and nickel-plated details ensure lasting sculptural stability.
Versatility
Compact footprint fits perfectly on side tables, desks, or bedside surfaces.
Maintenance Ease
Polymer material is durable, though the organic shape requires careful dusting.
Bulb Compatibility
Standard E26 base supports a wide range of modern LED options.
Key Specs
Height
12.25 in
Diameter
11 in
Weight
5 lbs
Shade Diameter
11 in
Cord Length
6 in
Max Wattage
150W
Material
Steel frame, Translucent plastic polymer shade, Brushed nickel-plated steel details
Bulb Type
LED, CFL, or incandescent with E26 base
Features
- Soft, glowing light output
- Translucent plastic polymer shade with visible steel infrastructure
- Organic, sculptural shape
- Brushed, nickel-plated steel details
- Inspired by George Nelson's iconic Bubble Lamp design
- Authentic design from the George Nelson Foundation
What customers say
The Nelson Bubble Lamp Lantern on Tripod earns high praise for its iconic mid century design and exceptional build quality. Owners appreciate how the translucent polymer skin creates a soft glare free glow that transforms any room into a serene space. The tripod base adds a sophisticated architectural element that feels both sturdy and elegant. While it represents a significant investment the timeless aesthetic and durable construction justify the cost for design enthusiasts. It remains a favorite for those seeking a blend of functional lighting and sculptural art.
Know before you buy
This lamp uses a standard E26 base and is compatible with LED, CFL, or incandescent bulbs. It supports a maximum wattage of 150W.
The shade is made from a durable plastic polymer sprayed over a steel frame. You can keep it clean by gently dusting it with a soft, dry cloth or a duster.
The lamp has a diameter of 11 inches and stands 12.25 inches tall. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for side tables, nightstands, or bookshelves.
The Nelson Lantern is designed primarily for soft, ambient illumination rather than focused task lighting. While it creates a warm, glowing atmosphere, you may want a dedicated reading light if you need to illuminate a book or document directly.
Yes. This lamp is produced by Herman Miller in collaboration with the George Nelson Foundation, ensuring it adheres to the original design specifications and quality standards.
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