Who was asking about self-closing hinges for gates, and latches that
could be easily opened from each side?

This is how it's done in Coalbrookdale....

http://www.skipweasel.pwp.blueyonder...mages/gate.jpg
http://www.skipweasel.pwp.blueyonder...ages/latch.jpg
http://www.skipweasel.pwp.blueyonder...ages/hinge.jpg

The latch bolt is withdrawn by the lever rising from the top of the
gate, so horsebods can use it easily. The gate swings closed because of
the two-pin lower hinge and the latch catches because whichever side the
gate shuts from the bolt, guided by the ramp, lifts the appropriate hook
which then falls and traps the bolt.

--
Skipweasel
Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.