The Dutch Oven that started it all! Elegant and Unknown "Clara Bell" Raised 8 Dutch Oven. This one hits home!
Our full catalog, cleaning and care instructions, and more can be found at www.castandclarabell.com
This dutch oven is special to us in so many ways. This is the exact same dutch oven that we were given from our grandmother, Clara Bell, who inspired us to start this cast iron adventure. Ours is almost identical, but doesnβt have the #2 on the bottom lip. This is the first time weβve been able to find another example of this dutch and its maker is largely unknown. We believe it came from the Tennessee area, where Clara Bell was born (Gatlinburg, TN) sometime in the early 1900βs. Its slightly smaller than a standard #8. It has a raised 8 on the lid as its only marking. It moves on glass so keep that in mind when purchasing.
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. Their history of use means small marks and inconsistencies, including residual carbon, which we feel give them a 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 & Clara Bell sells fully restored cast iron cookware, bakeware, dutch ovens, 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 & Painter, Erie, Griswoldβs Erie, Birmingham Stove & Range, Vollrath, Chicago Hardware Foundry, CHF, Martin Stove & Range as well as gatemarked unknown and specialty pieces are organized into categories. We offer collectorβs pieces, everyday users, and everything in between!
This dutch oven is special to us in so many ways. This is the exact same dutch oven that we were given from our grandmother, Clara Bell, who inspired us to start this cast iron adventure. Ours is almost identical, but doesnβt have the #2 on the bottom lip. This is the first time weβve been able to find another example of this dutch and its maker is largely unknown. We believe it came from the Tennessee area, where Clara Bell was born (Gatlinburg, TN) sometime in the early 1900βs. Its slightly smaller than a standard #8. It has a raised 8 on the lid as its only marking. It moves on glass so keep that in mind when purchasing.
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. Their history of use means small marks and inconsistencies, including residual carbon, which we feel give them a 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 & Clara Bell sells fully restored cast iron cookware, bakeware, dutch ovens, 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 & Painter, Erie, Griswoldβs Erie, Birmingham Stove & Range, Vollrath, Chicago Hardware Foundry, CHF, Martin Stove & Range as well as gatemarked unknown and specialty pieces are organized into categories. We offer collectorβs pieces, everyday 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.
π Skillet Size Comparison
| Skillet Size | Approx. Diameter | Recommended For | Rarity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | VERY Hard to Find | π²π²π²π²π² |
| 3 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | No | π² |
| 4 | 6 inches | Frying eggs, small sides | Somewhat | π²π²π² |
| 5 | 7 inches | Side dishes, sautΓ©ing, single grilled cheese | No | π²π² |
| 6 | 8 inches | Side dishes, sautΓ©ing, omelets | No | π² |
| 7 | 9 inches | Side dishes, sautΓ©ing, omelets | Somewhat | π²π² |
| 8 | 10 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | No | π² |
| 9 | 11 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | π²π² |
| 10 | 12 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Somewhat | π²π²π² |
| 11 | 13 inches | Proteins, stir-frys, larger side dishes | Yes | π²π²π²π²π² |
| 12 | 14 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, etc. | Yes | π²π²π²π²π² |
| 13 | 15 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, big batch meals | VERY Hard to Find | π²π²π²π²π²π²π² |
| 14 | 16 inches | Large proteins, full pound of bacon, crowd cooking | Yes | π²π²π²π² |
π οΈ Buying TipsΒ
- New to cast iron? Start with a size 8β10. They're versatile and great for daily cooking.
- Cooking for a crowd? Sizes 12β14 will feed everyone with room to spare.
- Have a glass cooktop? Look for listings marked "sits flat" β 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 oneβs 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.
The Dutch Oven that started it all! Elegant and Unknown "Clara Bell" Raised 8 Dutch Oven. This one hits home!
