CRT having focus mask with partially conductive insulator

A color cathode-ray tube has an evacuated envelope with an electron gun therein for generating an electron beam. The envelope further includes a faceplate panel having a luminescent screen with phosphor elements on an interior surface thereof. A focus mask, having a plurality of spaced-apart first conductive strands, is located adjacent to an effective picture area of the screen. The spacing between the first conductive strands defines a plurality of apertures substantially parallel to the phosphor elements on the screen. Each of the first conductive strands has a substantially continuous insulating material layer formed on a screen-facing side thereof. A plurality of second conductive wires are oriented substantially perpendicular to the plurality of first conductive strands and are bonded thereto by the insulating material layer. The insulating material layer is partially or slightly conductive to an extent sufficient to prevent an accumulation of a significant electrical charge.