Located between Argentière and vallorcine, today Le Tour is still a relatively peaceful village in marked contrast to its neighbouring towns in the Chamonix valley. Looking south to the Aiguille d’Encrenaz and the Aiguille de Mesure, Contencin made this painting after a heavy snowfall. In February 1999 nearly five metres of snow fell around Le Tour in the space of just two weeks resulting in a huge avalanche. It devastated many lives and blighted the aspect of the hamlet for evermore.