Claude Antoine Ponthus-Cinier was a distinguished French painter known for his contributions to the landscape genre during the mid-19th century. Belonging to what could be defined as the third generation of neo-classical or historic landscapers, Ponthus-Cinier emerged alongside notable contemporaries such as Félix Lanoue, Achille Benouville, and Paul Flandrin. He is considered the main representative of Lyon-style landscapers around the middle of the 19th century.

Born into a family with a background in both commerce and judiciary, Ponthus-Cinier's artistic aspirations led him to pursue training at the Lyon School of Fine Arts in 1829. Despite his parents' intentions for him to enter trade, Ponthus-Cinier was determined to follow the artistic path. He further honed his skills by studying under renowned painter Paul Delaroche in Paris.

Ponthus-Cinier made his artistic debut by exhibiting his first works at the Salon de Lyon in 1839, followed by participation in the Salon de Paris in 1841. In the same year, he received the second prize in Rome for historic landscape, marking a significant milestone in his career. To further refine his craft, Ponthus-Cinier embarked on a transformative journey to Italy between 1842 and 1844. During his solitary sojourn, he traversed various regions, including the Ligurian coast, Tuscany, and Naples, meticulously documenting his experiences through painted sketches and pen drawings. These studies served as a foundation for his compositions throughout his career.

Ponthus-Cinier's artistic prowess lay in his mastery of lighting and perspective, as noted by contemporary critics. His landscapes often captured the ethereal play of light and shadow, imbuing his works with a sense of atmosphere and depth. However, while celebrated for his landscapes, Ponthus-Cinier's portrayal of figures and details was occasionally perceived as less brilliant.

Among his notable works is a panoramic view of Malleval, a medieval village nestled in the Loire department, south of Lyon. This painting exemplifies Ponthus-Cinier's ability to capture the picturesque beauty of the French countryside. The inclusion of local legends, such as the tale of the Laurette jump, adds depth and narrative to his compositions.

The exact period of execution for Ponthus-Cinier's paintings remains somewhat elusive, with his career spanning from 1840 to 1880. However, early works exhibited in Lyon and Paris suggest that the Malleval panorama may have been created during the earlier years of his career.

Throughout his lifetime, Claude Antoine Ponthus-Cinier remained dedicated to his artistic pursuits, leaving behind a legacy of evocative landscapes that continue to captivate audiences to this day.