Available in pendant and wall versions, Helena is a blown-glass sphere, wrapped in an aluminum hemisphere that can be rotated to change the direction of the light, giving the lamp the appearance of a moon. A pattern of small, laser-cut stars on the dome characterizes Helena, creating a harmonious interplay of light and shadow that emphasizes its celestial resemblance.

Intended to illuminate the interior of St. Mary's Church in Helena, Arkansas, the Helena lamp was designed by Charles Eames in 1934 when he was practicing architecture in St. Louis, Missouri. The lamp is put into production for the first time by Cassina in collaboration with the Eames Office, the design studio founded by Charles and Ray in 1941.

Throughout the 1930s and prior to meeting Ray, Charles was practicing architecture in St. Louis, Missouri. In the middle of the Great Depression, Charles began a firm with architect Robert Walsh and built two churches in Arkansas: St. Mary’s Church in Helena, and St. Mary's Church in Paragould. St. Mary's Church was a pivotal work in the early years of Charles's career. Upon completion, Howard Meyer published the project in Architectural Forum, garnering Eames and Walsh publicity and respect. Eames and Walsh's next big commission stemmed directly from their success in Helena. The church also caught the attention of Eliel Saarinen, esteemed architect and father of Eero Saarinen, which led Charles to the Cranbrook Academy of Art and a lifetime with Ray.

Like the original design, the model is embellished with an orbital ring that wraps around the lamp; once used to attach the glass globe, it now constitutes an additional decorative element. When the lamp is lit, the pattern is illuminated, creating a harmonious interplay of light and shadow that emphasizes its celestial appearance.