Millions of people lost their lives during the Thirty Years’ War. Magdeburg suffered particularly hard. Catholic troops burned the city in 1631, and out of 36,000 inhabitants only 6,000 survived. In the painting, cannons aimed at the city can be seen, and the imperial troops with raised lances are moving towards the city walls. The commanders are on the right side of the painting. They are more detailed, and the light is concentrated on them.