I love this size and I love this shape especially for roasting chickens or baking a boule of sourdough bread. You have enough room to add all of your vegetables in with the chicken, which is a huge plus. For baking bread the cast iron is perfect because it conducts heat so well, and retains the heat. The spikes under the lid collect moisture and self-baste whatever dish you are baking or roasting in the oven, all while it is cooking, so almost like you have an extra hand! You get to take all the credit though! Bread does come out perfect when baked in a staub and your chickens will come out juicy and golden brown.