This anvil is similar to but not exactly like the one at the front of the Stacked Anvil Display in the Maison de l'Outil Collection in Troyes France.

Note the small single side exit hardy hole. This is common on French and other early European anvils. It is also seen on English anvils made for export to the continent.

This anvil has a very small 1/2 - 5/8" (13 to 16 mm) side penetration hardy hole. These are punched and chiseled through the top plate and exit out the side of the anvil. The side opening is required so that scale and pieces of steel punched through the hole can fall out.

Marking and decorative incising on side of anvil. The only thing legible in this photo is 1902. Notice the toe nails painted on the feet.

Famous French iron bloom truffle pig.
Anvilfire Comic by the anvilfire guru.


French "Boat" Anvil
The traditional Mediterranean French anvil.