One as eligible keeps artistic support? (5)

I believe the answer is:

easel

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'artistic support' is the definition.
(an easel holds an artist's canvas up)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for easel that I've seen before include "artist's requisite" , "Support in the studio" , "Artist's supporting frame" , "Studio frame" , "Picture frame" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent and The Times.

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