Praying Hands by Albrecht Durer 2.5 oz Silver Coin

2.5 oz 999 Fine Silver Coin – Republique du Tchad 2024 – 10000 Francs CFA

Praying Hands (also known as Study of the Hands of an Apostle) was created by Albrecht Dürer in 1508, with the drawing capturing the essence of humility and spiritual reverence. Though often reproduced in religious contexts today, its origin and meanings are rooted in both Dürer’s technical genius and personal piety.

Born in Nuremberg in 1471, Dürer was a central figure in the Northern Renaissance, a period marked by detailed realism and intellectual exploration. Being a master painter, pioneering printmaker and theorist, his work blended Northern Gothic traditions with the innovations of the Italian Renaissance. This artwork emerged during a time of both religious devotion and artistic flourishing in Europe, and reflects Dürer’s own engagement with both. The hands depicted are those of an apostle, folded in prayer, and are rendered with exquisite detail – every tendon, vein, and wrinkle is meticulously observed, showcasing Dürer’s unmatched draftsmanship. The choice of medium ink on blue paper also adds to the spiritual tone of the drawing, where the blue background evokes a sense of calmness, and precise linework contrasts with the subject to mirror the Renaissance tension between earthly form and divine ideal.

Beyond its technical brilliance, “Praying Hands” resonates deeply because of its powerful symbolism. The gesture of folded hands is universally associated with prayer, submission, and humility before God. This captures a moment of silent communication between the human and the divine, suggesting both self-reflection and the desire to find meaning and connection in life. Some interpretations suggest that the hands are modelled after Dürer’s brother’s hands – an expression of gratitude and sacrifice. According to a popular though unconfirmed story, Dürer’s brother gave up his own artistic ambitions to support Albrecht’s training, and this drawing was Dürer’s tribute to his brother’s devotion.

This art piece remains as an iconic painting due to its artistic excellence, profound emotional and spiritual depth. Transcending time, culture, and religion, Dürer captured the essence of faith, humility, and artistic devotion – a legacy that continues to inspire centuries after its creation.

On a canvas of 165 x 125mm, a new minting technique called “Tri-Metal” was applied to give this piece its remarkable weight while keeping its proportions true to the actual painting. This is made possible by combining 750g of Zinc as a center layer and 120g of copper as a base with a top layer of 2.5 oz of 999 fine Silver, resulting in a high relief. This is a limited edition of 399 pieces only. Each piece is packaged and delivered with a Certificate verifying its edition number and authenticity.