Mathieu is best known for his work in furniture and lighting design. He worked for many companies, including the famous French furniture brand "Perriand et Le Corbusier".
During his career, Mathieu won numerous awards and distinctions for his work, including the Grand Prix of the Milan Triennale in 1954 for his "Caravelle" armchair.
He was also professor of industrial design at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris from 1965 to 1975.
Robert Mathieu died in 2002, but his work continues to be recognized and appreciated in the design world.