Heat Ring is an Indented Groove

[Jan S.]

I can't identify this little skillet. It is very rustic appearing, and the "heat ring" is a indented groove, instead of a raised ring.

[Doug D.]

Need a photo of the entire bottom including the handle.

[Jan S.]

It's wet because I just rinsed it. I can't find any numbers or identifying marks, but it's not fully clean yet. I think I have attached the pictures properly.

[Jan S.]

Also, I see shiny black remnants...is that black spray paint or some sort of coating.

[Doug D.]

Probably an Asian import. The design is not consistent with any known USA makers of unmarked goods. The small pour spouts and thick walls for its size indicate it was made using automated molding machinery, so is not all that old. The black is normally seasoning build-up, but people have been known to paint cast iron cookware pieces for various reasons. It should come off with lye or electrolysis.

[Jan S.]

That would explain it. No markings of origin so still pre 1960? Bottom is very smooth, but not flat, like it was never machined flat. Thank you for your help.

[Doug D.]

Hard to say conclusively where and when, but automation and lack of "Made In Country Name" imply ca. early 1960s.