[en] The experimental progress of a laser-driven Cs₃Sb photocathodes is reported. The cathodes prepared in an UHV system can be used to generate short-pulsed, high-brightness electron beams. Emission properties are tested under a 50-200 ns pulsed Xe⁺ laser illumination. The quantum efficiency in the range of 2-5.6% and current density of 108 A/cm² are obtained. A brightness of 1.85x10⁹ A/m² rad² is also measured. Mass analysis and other methods have been used for investigating the plasma formation when laser intensity rises above the 'break-down' threshold. The current density increases rapidly during the plasma electron emission, but the pulse width of the emission is enlarged, and the brightness is limited. It is observed that the plasma is just composed of cesium and antimony atoms from the cathode rather than adsorbed residual gases. (orig.)