An mode plate 80 for use in a field emission flat panel display device comprises a transparent planar substrate 88 having a plurality of electrically conductive, parallel stripes 50 comprising the anode electrode of the device, which are covered by phosphors 84.sub.R, 84.sub.G and 84.sub.B. The conductors 50 which are covered by the same color phosphors are electrically interconnected by buses 52, 54, and 56. A substantially opaque, electrically insulating material 86 is affixed to substrate 88 in the spaces between conductors 50, acting as a barrier to the passage of ambient light into and out of the device. In addition, the same substantially opaque, electrically insulating material 86 is formed between the conductors 50 and the buses 52, 54, and 56, thereby providing electrical isolation between the two layers. Opaque material 86 preferably comprises glass having impurities dispersed therein, wherein the impurities may include one or more organic dyes, selected to provide relatively uniform opacity over the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Alternatively, the impurities may include the black oxide of a transition metal such as cobalt.