If the 15th century German artist, Albrecht Dürer, was alive today, he would be a rich man. Copyright to his brush drawing of 'Hands in Prayer' would auction off for millions. It was originally commissioned as an altar-piece by the mayor of Frankfurt in 1508. A later version of these praying hands appeared in another Dürer work, only this time as the hands of an apostle standing at an empty grave looking heavenwards at the coronation of the Virgin Mary. The original was destroyed by fire in 1729, but a copy of the altar-piece, as well as some earlier sketches survived.
Today, Dürer's "Praying Hands" is not only the most widely known and frequently produced of his works, but it's one of the most popular tattoo designs of all times. The image continues to move people's hearts and minds, especially when combined with a variety of favorite tattoo icons, such as the cross or the rosary. It is often teamed up with hearts and halos, or the name of a loved one, as a memorial.
Other 'Hands' appear with prayer text or holy scripts, or with wounds of the crucifixion and the holy fire. Dürer would probably be happy to see his work so universally adopted. He was an artist who believed his talent was a gift from God. His love of nature and attention to detail in even the smallest of his works were his way of glorifying the Creator.
Below you will find a gallery of inspirational images that will help you in your quest of creating the perfect Religious tattoo.
Also Check out: Religious Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Rosary Tattoos, Jesus Christ Tattoos, Rock of Ages Tattoos, Religious Tattoo Index, Angel Tattoos, Dove Tattoos, Wings Tattoos, Star Tattoos, Cross Tattoos and Latino Tattoo Index.
