Biography

The life and work of Carlos White Eagle

At a glance

Life dates
1937-2013
Tribe / Pueblo
Apache
Known for
  • Jewelry
Available now
1 piece

Carlos White Eagle (often dated 1937–2013; some sources list birth around 1950) was a Mescalero Apache/Navajo (Diné) silversmith, painter, and sculptor. He began learning as a young boy under legendary Navajo silversmith Fred Peshlakai (sometimes described as uncle/godfather) in Los Angeles, emphasizing entirely handmade work with high-quality turquoise and no casting. He later worked in Zuni contexts (including time with Dan Simplicio), served in the military (Korea era in some accounts), and produced bold, sculptural jewelry collected by figures such as the Roosevelts, President Eisenhower, Elvis Presley, and Cher. His pieces are relatively scarce on the market because of the labor-intensive handwork.