<p>In 1837, a genteel young woman named Mary Ellen Betts decides to paint a self-portrait. Who was she, what can we learn from this painting, and why is it so significant to our understanding of life in the early 1800s?</p>

The rare family portrait from 1854

A new podcast series brought to you by State Library of NSW, Create NSW and Essex Street Media. Series 1 of Portrait Detective dives into the collections of the State Library to discover the stories behind iconic portraits from 1817 to 1865. Join Margot Riley and Cassie Gilmartin as they journey back in time to discuss each portrait's significance and how they can help you learn more about your own photographs in your family history collection. For more, visit portraitdetective.com.au

Credits
Hosts: Cassie Gilmartin and Margot Riley
Producer: Daniel Butler
Studio: 2SER
Created by: Cassie Gilmartin and Margot Riley in partnership with State Library of NSW and Create NSW

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Country on which this podcast was recorded, the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.