Horn Anvil with Large Base

A Horn Anvil, also known simply as a "horn," is a specialized tool used in jewelry making and metalworking. It typically consists of a solid metal base with a horn-shaped protrusion at one end. Here's how it's used:

1. **Forming and Shaping**: The horn of the anvil is used for forming and shaping metal pieces, particularly those with curved or rounded surfaces. Jewelry makers can use the horn to create gentle curves, domes, or other rounded shapes in metal wire or sheet.

2. **Texturing**: The surface of the horn can also be used for texturing metal. By hammering metal against the horn, jewelry makers can create unique textures and patterns on the surface of their pieces.

3. **Supporting Work**: The flat base of the anvil provides a stable surface for supporting metal pieces while working on them. This is especially useful when hammering or forming metal, as it helps prevent movement and distortion of the workpiece.

4. **Wire Bending**: Jewelry makers can use the horn to bend metal wire into curved or angled shapes. The rounded surface of the horn allows for smooth and controlled bending without leaving marks or marring the metal.

5. **Cold Joining**: When joining metal pieces together using techniques such as riveting or cold connections, the horn can be used as a backing surface to support the workpiece while hammering or forming the connection.

Overall, a Horn Anvil is a versatile tool in jewelry making, offering jewelry makers the ability to shape, texture, and manipulate metal with precision and control. It's particularly useful for forming curved and rounded shapes in metal pieces, making it an essential tool for many jewelry fabrication processes.