This magnificent artwork is a riot of color and action, showing the parade winding its way from New Orleans’ Garden District along the edge of the famous French Quarter. The air is filled with music, from Dixieland jazz and blues to gospel and rock, and also the marvelous aromas of creole and cajun cooking. In the center is the great Rex float amidst costumed knights on horseback. Behind Rex, a blown-up head of the classic Mardi Gras jester bobs above the frivolity. The “beef” acknowledges the faithful who will give up eating meat during the Lenten season. Behind the “beef” is the Streetcar Named Desire. The people on the floats throw colorful souvenir coins, beads and necklaces to the boisterous crowd. Jesters, harlequins and punchinellos dance and tumble. Napoleon rides somberly along the left flank. Up on one of the Quarter’s wonderful cast iron balconies, a spirited, shapely lovely expresses her uninhibited delight. The artist himself is in the crowd on the right, sketching participants and vignettes. With a print that absolutely pulsates with the energy and vitality of Carnival, LeRoy Neiman joyously celebrates the Mardi Gras Parade.