This is such a versatile little cast iron Dutch oven. I have been wanting a cast ion mortar and pestle and so far the largest one I have found is 16-ounces and I ended up ordering it. The pestle is great -- very heavy and solid and it is very sturdy. However, the mortar doesn't quite measure up -- it seems rather small in comparison to the pestle and it is also considerably lighter in weight than I expected + the sides and base are fairly thin (for cast iron, anyway). I thought this Dutch oven might make a good substitute for the mortar even though it doesn't have the usual rounded bottom. It works perfectly! And the entire construction is very heavy and robust with very thick sides and base. This will be useful for so many other things, too. I like the cute shape and I'll be using it for butter on baking day, for BBQ sauce when grilling and it is excellent for small meals for just one. I like the heavy-duty lid, too; it has a flat top to allow coals to be placed on it if the oven is to be nestled in a campfire and there is a ridge around the inner circumference to help keep it in place, but still allow enough movement so I can actually open it when I want to. The logo and little loop handle has a charming, vintage look, too. Of course, being made of cast iron, this will need occasional seasoning. The price is fantastic, as well. I'm very happy to have found this...