Vintage French Staub Cast Iron Dutch Oven Matte Black 19¾" x 13¾"

A vintage French Staub cast-iron Dutch oven from the working kitchen at Chanteduc, Patricia Wells’s Provençal home. Finished in matte black enamel, it carries the Staub stamp across the lid and a warmly toned brass knob. Broad loop handles offer a steady grip. The surface shows the honest patina of steady use, the kind of soft sheen only years of careful cooking produce. Substantial yet manageable, it moves easily from stove or oven to the table. Patricia explains, “I also made my ‘fake frites’ in this, using what I think is a Joël Robuchon recipe. You simply put the oil and potatoes in the pot, so you don’t need a deep fryer.” That same even heat suits market-day soups, slow-cooked lamb, roast chicken and gratins. With clear provenance from Patricia’s personal collection and classic French manufacture, it is both tool and memory keeper, shaped by lessons from her kitchen, garden and shared table in Provence. Put it straight to work for everyday braises and celebratory service, or let it rest on a sturdy shelf or pot rack as a handsome, steadfast workhorse. "To describe Joel Robuchon as a cook is a bit like calling Pablo Picasso a painter, Luciano Pavarotti a singer, Frederic Chopin a pianist..." Patricia Wells