A color display device (1) comprises a plurality of picture elements (3, 4, 5), the plurality of picture elements having a viewing side (5) and a rear side (6). Each picture element includes a light valve (7, 8, 9). The display device comprises a switchable part (12, 13) for selectively directing light of a first color and light of a second color through the light valve from the rear side to the viewing side. Each light valve comprises a first and a second switchable color filter (17, 19) having a transmittance for a third color and a fourth color, respectively, and arranged in succession in the path of the light.