Antique, elegant gate-marked unknown #8 skillet. Wonderfully preserved. Est 1880's Era. Flat handle # Pattern
If you‘re searching for some unique cast iron to add to your collection, consider adding this flat handled, incised #8 skillet. The double pour spout is reminiscent of patterns in the late 1880‘s. It could be from a N.Y. based pattern. It sits flat so its perfect for any cook surface. It is one of the nicest of this age that we‘ve seen. The handle is smooth and the cook surface is a special kind of perfect. All around gorgeous.
Background on Gate Marking: Gate marking is a term used in describing pieces that were cast prior to very early 1900, when gate mark casting became obsolete. Many foundries during this time are considered "no name" or "unknown" foundries, and produced cookware locally without consideration a future need to know their origins! So while its virtually impossible to know the exact date and location of their creation, they were most likely manufactured in the mid atlantic/ohio area. However this is a best guess at best! This pan has been restored and seasoned three times in organic beef tallow. Its got a cool handle reminiscent of the fancy handles, and is a great piece to cook with OR to display in your gourmet kitchen.
DISCLAIMER: We have prepared this piece to be ready to use or displayed in a collection. All pieces are vintage and therefore are not in perfect condition. Please use the photos as description. History of use means these pieces will have small marks and inconsistencies which we feel give them special charm. All items are sold as is and we have done our best to present them as such. Please review all pictures and ask for further clarification if needed. Thank you! - Cast & Clara Bell
Cast And Clara Bell sells fully restored cast iron cookware, bakeware, dutch oven, griddles, sad irons, bailed griddles, gem pans, muffin pans, kettles, skillets, trivets, lids and much more! Brands like Griswold, Wagner, Sidney, WagnerWare, Wapak, Lodge, Favorite Piqua, Marietta, Orr and Painter, Erie, Griswolds Erie, Gate marked unknown, Birmingham Stove and Range, Vollrath, Chicago Hardware Foundry, CHF, Martin Stove and Range and Specialty pieces are organized into categories. We sell Collector‘s pieces, every day users and everything in between!
Cast Iron Skillet Size Guide: What Size Do You Need?
One of the most common questions we get is: What size skillet should I buy? Whether you're frying an egg or searing a full roast, choosing the right size is key to a great cooking experience.
Note: These sizes are general estimates and can vary by brand. For exact dimensions, always check the product photos and description on each listing.
🔍 Skillet Size Comparison
| Skillet Size | Approx. Diameter | Recommended For | Rarity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | VERY Hard to Find | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 3 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | No | 💲 |
| 4 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | Somewhat | 💲💲💲 |
| 5 | 7 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, single grilled cheese | No | 💲💲 |
| 6 | 8 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, omelets | No | 💲 |
| 7 | 9 inches | Side dishes, sautéing, omelets | Somewhat | 💲💲 |
| 8 | 10 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | No | 💲 |
| 9 | 11 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | 💲💲 |
| 10 | 12 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | 💲💲💲 |
| 11 | 13 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Yes | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 12 | 14 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, etc. | Yes | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 13 | 15 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, big batch meals | VERY Hard to Find | 💲💲💲💲💲💲💲 |
| 14 | 16 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, crowd cooking | Yes | 💲💲💲💲 |
🛠️ Buying Tips
- New to cast iron? Start with a size 8–10. They're versatile and great for daily cooking.
- Cooking for a crowd? Sizes 12–14 will feed everyone with room to spare.
- Have a glass cooktop? Look for listings marked "sits flat" — full contact is key.
- Looking to collect? Sizes 2, 11, 12, and 13 are rare and can be prized additions to a collection.
Still not sure which one’s right for you? Reach out anytime. We love helping folks find the perfect piece. Or dive deeper by reading more on our Cast & Clara Bell Blog.










