The Second Relief of Bahram II

 This relief which has been carved over a flat and rectangular surface with a diameter of 5/10 by 5 meters is the second major relief attributed to Bahram II (274-293 CE) in Tang-e Chogan. At the center of the scene and in the upper frame, the Sassanian king is siting on the throne, and in accordance with the eastern tradition, he is shown bigger and heavier than others. He is holding a flag with his right hand and a sword with his left hand wich is held vertically between his legs. On the right side of the king, the Sassanian rulers and commanders are shown while holding their right hands in front of their faces in an state of respect. On the left side of the king, in the upper part, some of the Parsians are bringing two captives to the presence of the king. In the lower part from the right hand of the king, a person is leading the horse of the king. Behind him, ten people consisting of the elders and commanders of Iran have been shown. Opposite the scene, on the left side of the Shah, eleven Iranian attendants and servants, along with a child who seems to have raised his hands in a state of supplication and obedience are seen. Among the eleven men, two executioners are presenting the heads of defeated enemies to the king. At the end of the scene, a carved elephant carries two riders on his back. Behind them are two people bringing gifts. There is a controversy in relation to the identity of the king sitting on the throne in this outstanding relief. Although some consider him as Shapur II, most of modern scholars think he is Bahram II, who is portraying his victory over a group of enemies or insurgents (probably the king of Sistan and Makran).