Disclosed is a device for handling a workpiece during a shaping process, especially a forging process. Said device comprises a) at least one gripping mechanism (3) with at least two gripping elements (30, 31) that grab the workpiece (10) and can be moved relative to each other, b) at least one unit (16) for conveying the gripping mechanism or at least one support apparatus (4) to which the gripping mechanism is or can be fastened, and c) at least one rotary drive unit (8) for rotating the gripping mechanism about an axis of rotation that extends through said gripping mechanism and/or rotating at least one of the gripping elements about an axis of rotation which extends through the gripping element. d) The conveying device and the gripping mechanism or the at least one support apparatus to which the gripping mechanism is or can be fastened are connected to each other in a flexible manner in a flexible state while being essentially fixed to each other in a rigid fashion or being positioned relative to each other in a rigid manner at least in one three-dimensional direction and/or in each rotating position of the gripping mechanism and/or the gripping element/s in a rigid state.