Reconstruction of Ancient Anchor

This is a reconstruction of a typical anchor from the Roman Period.   All the parts of this "ancient anchor" are modern except the lead "Stock."

The "Flukes" are the parts of the anchor, usually wooden and sometimes tipped with copper, that dig into the bottom of the sea.  At the top of the wooden shank (right) a rope connects the anchor to the ship.  The "stock" is made out of lead and often has a wood core,.  It helps the anchor to sink and helps to position the anchor so that the "flukes" dig into the sea bottom.

Franz, Gordon "Does the 'Lost Shipwreck of Paul' Hold Water?  Or, Have the Anchors from the Apostle Paul's Shipwreck Been discovered on Malta?"