A device for the gesture-controlled setting of at least one setting variable on an X-ray source includes at least one recognition unit for anatomically recognizing a body part suitable for gesture control, at least one gesture detection unit for detecting at least one gesture of a body part recognized by the recognition unit, and at least one light source for displaying the at least one setting variable as feedback for a person making the gesture. The at least one setting variable was preset and/or set by using the at least one detected gesture. A method for the gesture-controlled setting of at least one setting variable on an X-ray source is also provided.