This collage is one of many large-scale drawings and models that Constant produced between 1956 and 1974, in which he set forth his vision for an idealized "worldwide city of the future." Called "New Babylon," this utopian city would be collectively owned and fully automated, freeing its inhabitants to practice creativity in their daily lives. Informed by the work of a variety of historians, theorists, and architects, Constants New Babylon is recognized for its contribution to postwar architecture and urban planning theory. It influenced many preeminent avant-garde architects and architectural groups, including Rem Koolhaas, Archigram, Archizoom, and Superstudio.

Gallery label from

From the Collection: 1960-69, March 16, 2016–March 12, 2017.

Medium Gelatin silver prints and paper with alkyd paint, crayon, pencil, and colored pencil on wood panel
Dimensions 20 1/2 × 77 1/4" (52.1 × 196.2 cm)
Credit Acquired through the generosity of Alice and Tom Tisch, Robert Beyer, Barbara Jakobson, Committee on Drawings and Prints Fund and Committee on Architecture and Design Funds
Object number 1627.2015
Department Drawings and Prints

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