Coronation of Ardashir II

The Coronation of Ardashir II is an archaeological site featuring a rock relief depicting the coronation ceremony of Ardashir II, the eleventh king of kings of the Sasanian Empire. Carved between 379 and 383 CE, this relief is located in Taq-e Bostan, Iran, and showcases three standing figures in regal attire. Ardashir II is positioned centrally, receiving a diadem from Shapur II, as indicated by the crown style. The figures stand on a fallen Roman enemy, likely representing Emperor Julian, who was killed during his campaign against the Sasanian Empire. The leftmost figure, often mistaken for Zoroaster, is likely the divinity Mithra, sanctifying the event with a barsom. The relief is a significant representation of Sasanian art and political propaganda.