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Webster 1913 Edition
Easel
Ea′sel
,Noun.
A frame (commonly) of wood serving to hold a canvas upright, or nearly upright, for the painter’s convenience or for exhibition.
Easel picture
, Easel piece
a painting of moderate size such as is made while resting on an easel, as distinguished from a painting on a wall or ceiling.
Webster 1828 Edition
Easel
E'ASEL
,Noun.
Easel-pieces, among painters, are the smaller pieces, either portraits or landscapes, which are painted on the easel, as distinguished from those which are drawn on walls, ceilings, &c.