Mardi Gras Day, Scene from St. Louis Cathedral, Cabildo, and Presbytere
Silkscreen edition of 250 (22 1/2″ x 30″)
$940 (unframed)
$1000 (framed)
The cathedral was designed in 1724 by Adrien de Pauger. Consumed in the great fire of March 1788, it was rebuilt from designs by Guillemard between 1789 and 1797, through the generosity of Don Andres Almonester y Roxas. In 1794, the cathedral, miraculously, escaped another mountrous fire.
Maskers commence in this popular spot on Mardi Gras day before they walk towards Canal Street to watch the parades. Two favorites are Zulu; the krewe that kicks off the festivities for the day (renowned for their famous coconut throws) and Rex, the King of Mardi Gras.
Having watched a few parades, the maskers head back to the French Quarters on Dumaine and Bourbon to catch a glimpse of internationally renowned Mardi Gras Costume Contest. Perhaps these characters (caterpillar, butterfly, bears, ddvl Cajun Jim, Mr. & Mrs. America) are contestants in this vanity show. Dressed to impressed. Their costumes are definitely a conversational piece.