In the early 16th century, Albrecht Dürer created Praying Hands (Betende Hände), a pen-and-ink drawing on blue paper he made himself.

Originally thought to be a preparatory sketch for Jakob Hellers Heller Altar, the work highlights Dürers skill, which had gained recognition across Europe by his twenties.

During his 40-year career, Dürer produced renowned woodcuts and engravings. Created in 1508, Praying Hands likely depicts an apostles hands in prayer, possibly modeled after his brothers hands, though unconfirmed.

Known as the Leonardo of the North, Dürer was a pivotal figure of the Northern Renaissance, contributing to printmaking, watercolor landscapes, and art theory.