Collections Connection: Entry Door Lock with Tom Latané

In this recording, Master Blacksmith Tom Latané looks at a specific door lock in the Vesterheim collection that is more complex than the others. The components of the lock are mounted on a flat, decoratively cut plate of iron and would be visible when mounted on the door. The lock’s two spring-loaded bolts each have a tumbler so that a key must pass the wards and strike four different parts to withdraw the bolts. On the inside, a person would move the tumblers with one hand and draw the bolts with the other. Tom’s discussion covers the function of the lock parts while sharing his knowledge about the forging process. Find out more about what he’s teaching at Vesterheim here.

Collection Connections is a series of Vesterheim-hosted conversations between the museum’s collections staff and folk-art school instructors. Highlighting the incredible folk-art collection at Vesterheim, these conversations are also opportunities for you to stay connected with your folk-art community. Each gathering will highlight a piece or two from the collection as explained, interpreted, and appreciated by a master folk artist.

Subscribe to Vesterheim’s YouTube channel here.