Woodworker: Steve Latta

During the late 18th century, elaborately framed mirrors, known as looking glasses, served as testimonials to the wealth of their owners. A looking glass similar to the one shown here would have cost the owner 10 to 12 shillings, a hefty price considering that the average wage for a skilled tradesman of the time was about 6 shillings a day. Built by woodworker and teacher Steve Latta, the mirror also serves as a good project for his students as it blends traditional design with modern machinery. It is constructed of mahogany and poplar with a makore veneer.

Photo: Mark Schofield