An anvil is a basic tool, a block with a hard surface on which another object is struck. The inertia of the anvil allows the energy of the striking tool to be transferred to the work piece. In most cases the anvil is used as a forging tool. Before the advent of modern welding technology, it was a primary tool of metal workers.
The great majority of modern anvils are made from steel, though other types exist.
Because anvils are very ancient tools and were at one time very commonplace, they have acquired symbolic meaning beyond their use as utilitarian objects.
Famous quotes containing the word anvil:
“Freedom is hammered out on the anvil of discussion, dissent, and debate.”
—Hubert H. Humphrey (1911–1978)
“The anvil of justice is planted firm, and fate who makes the sword does the forging in advance.”
—Aeschylus (525–456 B.C.)
“In this world a man must either be anvil or hammer.”
—Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882)