The Pan Handler is a platform for education and community engagement. Through his blog, Michael Johnson offers articles on the selection, cleaning, and care of vintage cast iron, as well as resources for conducting personal research into the history of these culinary artifacts.
For those new to the world of cast iron, the blog provides valuable insights into why these pieces are cherished by collectors and how they can be integrated into modern cooking practices.
At The Pan Handler, every piece of cookware tells a story, meticulously sourced from various corners of the United States to ensure a diverse and valuable collection. The acquisition process involves not just finding these vintage items but understanding their origins and the context in which they were made and used. This painstaking process is essential to preserving the integrity and authenticity of the cookware, which is often seen as a link to a bygone era of craftsmanship.
As part of their brand evolution, they have now moved their online presence to a new website: panmastery.com. This move signifies not just a change in digital space but also a renewed commitment to providing the finest in collectible cookware. Their collection boasts esteemed brands like Griswold, Wagner, Wapak, Favorite, and Lodge, among others, with a special focus on Griswold pieces.
Michael Johnson is the founder of Pan Mastery, Inspired by his blacksmith grandfather’s legacy has a deep appreciation for hand-crafted pots and pans, he provides invaluable guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your culinary journey.
I inherited an iron skillet (I guess it’s a skillet, but not sure that it’s not a cover instead) that has a handle unlike anything I find online. Can you tell me anything about it? Instead of coming straight out from the skillet it curves down 1/2”-3/4” then straightens. Opposite the handle is a “tab” with a rectangular hole 3/4” wide and 1/4” across. There are two smaller pour spouts on each side. There are no markings on the bottom of the skillet- name, number, or symbol.