The originals of these came to us as many do, as an inquiry as to what kind of anvil it is. Often exact names or definitions are impossible. This small T-stake type anvil would have many uses working sheet or light plate. If used by an Armourer it would be an "Armourer's cylindrical T-stake anvil", if used by a Silversmith it would be a "Silversmith's" cylindrical anvil", if used by a Tinsmith it might be a Tea Pot stake.
The decoration on this beautifully made old tool indicates that it may be French but it could have come from any country in the region.

This is an absolutely beautiful piece of tool smithing with its hexagonal shank blending into the shoulder flange.

Above are modern versions of similar tools. The Peddinghaus (Handwerkzeuge-Durlach) "Bechereisn" or Braiser's Anvil is very similar and the Pextow Conductor Stake has longer but similar sized work surfaces and also includes the center flat as well.

Stakes, Stake Anvils and T-Stakes
Stakes from Pexto, Peddinghaus, the Kenneth Lynch Collection and others.


Classic European Stake Anvil
From the Lyda-Ferdinand Collection.


Tall Stake Anvil
From the Old Millstone Forge Museum Collection.


Stake or Ship's Anvil
From the collection of Burnt Forge.