He was one of the most prolific artists of the century and was most successful during the Second Empire, enjoying the personal support of Napoleon III. His work was greatly influenced by the Italian Renaissance and 18th century styles, which he helped to bring up to date.

Carrier-Belleuse contributed greatly to the improvement of decorative and industrial arts. From his workshop at 15 rue de la Tour d'Auvergne in Paris, where a large number of artists worked, including Auguste Rodin, a prodigious number of decorative statuettes were produced.

Towards the end of his life, Carrier-Belleuse was director of the works of art at the Manufacture de Sèvres. His passage was marked by the renewal of the collections and the modernization of the style.

His sons Louis Robert and Pierre Carrier-Belleuse also distinguished themselves in the arts.