easels

An easel is a stand used by artists to hold a canvas, panel, or drawing board upright or at an angle during work or display. Most easels are adjustable in height and tilt, enabling painters to work at comfortable angles and to move around the painting. They can also serve as a display support when finished. The word easel is commonly believed to derive from the Dutch ezel (donkey), referencing its load-bearing function.

There are several common forms. Studio or A-frame easels use a triangular frame with a front tilt and a lower shelf or lip to support the artwork; H-frame easels are broader for large canvases and often more stable. French easels are portable with a hinged box that stores a palette and brushes, plus a pull-out shelf for a canvas. Plein air easels are compact and lightweight for outdoor use. Tabletop or table easels are small, designed for desks or painting on small surfaces. Materials include wood (often beech, birch, or maple), metal (aluminum), and durable plastics.

History and use have long overlap. The basic concept dates to early modern Europe, with easels becoming common in artists’ studios during the 16th to 18th centuries as easel painting rose in prominence. The range of designs reflects needs for portable media, large studio works, or simple demonstrations.

Selecting an easel depends on canvas size, weight, and use setting. A stable base, reliable clamps or ledges to hold the work, and ease of height and tilt adjustment are important. Regular maintenance includes cleaning and occasional lubrication of joints to preserve smooth operation.