Every aspect of writing an icon in a ritual infused with meaning. Not the east of this is the choice in paint/pigment color. As I have mentioned earlier the red bole applied before gilding represents the earth and man; the gold God's breath and Divine Light.
Often those represented in icons are shown wearing specific color; Mary, Christ's mother often in blue, Christ in red. The significance of this is not to be overlooked; instead it is to read by the viewer.
The following are list of colors and their significance in Byzantine Iconography:
PURPLE: Often a color of royalty, as purple is a hard to acquire color, this color also represents the Kingdom of God.
RED: Used to represent humanity; Christ is shown in red as a reminder of his human nature. Red also symbolized blood, and earth.
BLUE: Symbolizes the God's Kingdom not on earth. Christ is often shown wearing a blue robe over a red tunic, thus expressing his dual nature. Mary as well is often shown wearing blue underneath a red cloak, symbolizing her Heavenly role and earthy existence.
WHITE: Typically represents purity and divinity. It is seen on angels, babies, and the shroud of the dead. Christ after is death is shown in white as well.
GREEN: Reprsents the earth, youth, and hope. The Archangel Gabriel in the icon I chose is seen wearing pale green which I believe represents the hope of the messages he delivers.
BROWN: Symbolizes man's earthly nature.
BLACK: Generally represents evil. The fallen angels are painted in black with very few distinguishing features.
