A Reflection on Proving the Real Identity and Historical Content of the Rock Relief of Ardashir Babakan at Naqsh-i Rajab of Fars

Whenever researchers come across a new point concerning Sassanian history, succeed in deciphering an inscription, or are to discover and understand a new cultural work, they invariably turn to Sassanian relief carvings, which have long been famous and considered valuable sources of the Sassanian period. Precious reliefs, which, as authentic criteria, can serve to measure documents obtained from historical and archaeological studies, giving rise to important discoveries and results, represent a large portion of the Sassanian’s arts, cultural and political, and religious practices. Since the rise of the Sassanid dynasty is important in the process of Iran's history, it is necessary to clarify the exact status of archaeological findings - especially its rock reliefs-and be removed their historical content from any ambiguity and darkness. Studies show that (1) Donor of the diadem of kingship in Ardashir Babakan’s relief at Naqsh-i Rajab of Fars no one except Ahuramazda. Attributing this character to a high priest or any other mortal character has no scientific basis or rationale; (2) The marriage of Ardashir Babakan with the fifth Ardavan’s daughter and the Birth of Shapur as a result of this marriage, was false and derived from a folk legend.