Artist can't make a self-portrait without it (5)
I believe the answer is:
easel
'artist' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.
'can't make a self-portrait without it' is the wordplay.
'EASEL' is hidden within the letters.
However, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for easel that I've seen before include "board support" , "stand supporting artistic effort" , "Artist's stand for painting" , "Artistic tripod" , "Lease out the stand" .)