Nelson Saucer Bubble pendant light in a flat, wide elliptical shape The Bubble series of lights was designed in 1942 by pioneering American designer George Nelson and first manufactured in 1952. He was inspired to create the series by Swedish silk-covered pendant lights that he wanted for his office but found too expensive. He then used his ingenuity to develop the lampshades for the Bubble series, all of which consist of a lightweight steel frame covered with a self-cross-linking plastic spray. The fine lines of the frame remain visible, which is what gives the lampshades their special appeal. The plastic spray is a development of the US military. It gives the lampshade a refined and elegant look and, thanks to its translucent surface, creates very pleasant lighting in the room. The light looks just as beautiful and decorative in living rooms or bedrooms as it does in a wide variety of commercial areas, such as hotel lobbies or foyers. Architect and visual artist George Nelson (1907–1986) was born in Connecticut and was one of the most influential figures in the crucial early days of modern design. He was educated at Yale and believed that it was the task of a designer to improve the world. In his various designs for furniture, light and even buildings, he often drew inspiration from the perfection of nature's creations.