Abstract: The deformation and failure mode of an anticline cutting high slope in Guangxi during the construction process are presented in this paper. The main influencing factors of slope toppling deformation are evaluated through the field geological survey and deformation test data. On this basis, a Phase2 finite element analysis model is established. The deformation morphology, sliding surface evolution and deformation development during the construction process are studied, and the deformation and failure evolution process of the slope are presented. The results show that from the perspective of geological structure, the anticline rock stratum is the main influencing factor of toppling deformation and failure. The interface between the strongly weathered and the moderately weathered rock strata controls the depth of sliding surface. The safety factor of the slope after excavation is 1.09, and the sliding surface is in an unstable state with the slope toe exposed and the slope top intact. In the process of excavation, the strong and medium weathered interface occurs dislocation deformation, and the anticline layer is toppled and slipped, which leads to the stepshaped deformation morphology of the slope surface. With the excavation, it gradually develops to the toe of the slope, which eventually leads to the toppling deformation failure mode of the slope. The slope is a toppling-traction failure mode. Its development and evolution process is excavation disturbance-rock interface dislocation-anticline layer toppling-lower deformation sliding-traction cracking upper-toppling deformation failure.