In a method and device for setting a spatial intensity distribution of an X-ray beam, an X-ray beam is generated by an X-ray tube. A beam path of the X-ray beam is guided in a direction of propagation by a form filter including a plurality of lamella plates which taper to a focal point such that, for each of the lamella plates, at least one straight line running through the respective lamella plate and forming a first direction of the lamella plate is aligned with the focal point. The first directions of the lamella plates of the form filter are aligned relative to the beam path. As a result of the alignment, parts of the X-ray beam are absorbed. Finally, the spatial intensity distribution of the X-ray beam is set in the direction of propagation by the absorption due to the lamella plates.
