Old Man Praying (St. Anthony) 1865 - 1920

This is Max Klinger’s print, Old Man Praying, likely made in the late 19th century using etching. The figure, presumably Saint Anthony, clasps his hands in supplication, a gesture that transcends mere piety. Recall the ancient Roman orators, their hands similarly posed, not in prayer but to sway the crowd with rhetoric. The folded hands here serve not only as a symbol of devotion but also echo the universal desire for connection and influence. Consider, too, the evolution of this gesture: from a sign of surrender in battle to a mark of respect, the folded hands bind us to our past. In a world increasingly shaped by cold, rational thought, Klinger’s image serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and introspection, of the deep, often subconscious longings that shape our understanding of the world. The visual symbol, a poignant echo across time, reminds us of humanity's continuous dialogue with the divine.