Laissez les bons temps rouler! The Colors of Mardi Gras

 

It’s Mardi Gras!  Carnival season!  And Fat Tuesday is just around the corner.  Ever wonder where those fabulous colors of Mardi Gras came from? 

 

 

In 1872, the three colors of Mardi Gras were chosen by Rex, the King of Mardi Gras in honor of the visiting Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich Romanoff, who suggested the colors.  And where do you suppose he found these color combinations?

 

 

Purple Represents Justice.

 

 

Green Represents Faith.

 

Gold Represents Power.

 

 

The colors are found throughout nature. 

 

Johnny Jump Ups Viola tricolor

German Iris Iris germanica

 

Crocus Crocus sativus

 

On the Color Wheel, purple and yellow are opposite colors making them the perfect complimentary color combination providing the best contrast.  This effect makes them jump out at you.  While yellow is a primary color, purple and green are both secondary colors (a blend of two primary colors). 

 

 

For more information on New Orleans’ Mardi Gras, go HERE.  For more information on color in the garden, go HERE.  And to all of you who embrace the season, Laissez les bons temps rouler!