Description

This vintage cast iron Santa Claus cake mold is a classic example of early 20th-century American holiday bakeware, produced by the Griswold Manufacturing Company of Erie, Pennsylvania. Measuring approximately 12 inches tall by 7 inches wide, the mold features a full-figure Santa rendered in strong relief, with a detailed beard, cap, coat, and sack. The two-part clamshell construction allowed for dimensional cakes, making it both a functional baking tool and a decorative seasonal object. One handle is marked with the pattern number “897”, while the opposite handle bears the cast “Griswold Mfg. Co., Erie, PA” identification.

Griswold Manufacturing Company, founded in 1865, is widely regarded as one of the finest American cast iron producers of its era. Known for precision casting, smooth surfaces, and well-designed patterns, Griswold cookware and specialty molds were marketed nationally and became staples in American kitchens. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the company expanded beyond utilitarian cookware to include novelty and holiday molds, capitalizing on the growing popularity of decorative home baking.

Santa Claus cake molds such as this one were especially popular in the early 1900s through the interwar period, when molded cakes were a centerpiece of holiday celebrations. These molds were typically used for gingerbread or spice cakes and often doubled as decorative wall hangings when not in use, thanks to their sculptural quality and hanging holes. The Santa motif reflects the solidification of modern Christmas imagery in American culture during this time, blending European traditions with domestic holiday customs.

Based on the casting style, handle markings, and pattern number format, this Griswold Santa Claus mold is generally attributed to the circa 1920s–1930s. Molds from this period often show crisp detail, substantial weight, and a dark, naturally aged patina consistent with long-term use and storage. The survival of both mold halves together is a notable advantage, as many examples have been separated over time.

Today, this Griswold Santa Claus cake mold is highly sought after by collectors of cast iron, holiday memorabilia, and early American kitchenware. It appeals equally as a functional baking mold, a display piece, or a historical artifact representing American holiday traditions and industrial craftsmanship. Its size, condition, and clear Griswold markings make it a strong and desirable example of classic seasonal cast iron.

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

12 inches tall by 7 inches wide

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.