easel

An easel is a stand used to support a painting surface, drawing board, or other work surface at a comfortable height and angle for viewing, sketching, or painting. It typically consists of a frame with legs that can be spread for stability, a top support or bar to hold the work, and a ledge or lip to keep the surface from sliding. Many easels also include mechanisms to adjust height and the tilt or angle of the working surface.

There are several main types. Studio easels are large, sturdy supports designed for in-studio use and can be of A-frame or H-frame construction. Plein air or field easels are portable tripods or compact frames suited to outdoor painting. Box or field boxes combine a carrying case with a built-in easel and a supply tray. Table or desk easels are small, upright supports for use on a table. French easels are portable units with a hinged case, palette tray, and drawer for supplies.

Easels are used with various media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, and drawing boards. They enable artists to adjust height and angle for comfort and to achieve desired lighting and perspective. Materials range from wood (common species include beech and ash) to metal (aluminum) and durable plastics. The design has evolved from simple wooden frames in the Renaissance to standardized, mass-produced models in the modern era, offering a range of sizes and load-bearing capacities. The word easel has debated origins, with likely influence from Dutch or French terms referring to a supporting frame.