n. [ D. ezel ass, donkey, hence, easel, or G. esel; akin to E. ass. See Ass. ] A frame (commonly) of wood serving to hold a canvas upright, or nearly upright, for the painter's convenience or for exhibition. [ 1913 Webster ]
Easel picture,
Easel piece
a. Without ease. Donne. [ 1913 Webster ]