Author: Habu, Junko
Title: Ancient Jomon of Japan
Description: Cambridge, U.K. Cambridge University Press, 2004. orig.cloth. 24x15cm, xv, 332 pp, Series: Case studies in early societies ; [4]. Textual maps & photo illus.. Minor rubbing. A stain to bottom page & binding edge. VG. ¶ Text entirely in English. Contents: Introduction; background to the study: overview of the Joman period; subsistence strategies; settlement archaeology; mortuary and ceremonial practices; crafts and exchange networks; discussion and conclusion ["Junko Habu illustrates recent developments in the archaeology of the Jomon period (circa 14,500-300 BC) of Japan and presents new analyses. Unlike most prehistoric pottery using peoples, the Jomon people are thought to have been hunter-gatherers. Evidence of plant cultivation does exist, but none of the cultigens recovered from Jomon sites seems to have been used as a staple food resource. High site density, food storage, and long distance trade also characterize this Jomon period. Using ecological models of hunter-gatherer culture and behavior, Habu examines various aspects of Jamon culture including subsistence, settlement, rituals, crafts and trade, and presents a model of long-term change in hunter-gatherer cultural complexity. In this comprehensive analysis, Junko Habu helps to bridge the gap between largely Japanese discourse on this 10,000 year period of Japanese prehistory and the modern scientific debate on later hunter-gatherer societies. It will prove invaluable to students and researchers alike" - Publisher's description].

Keywords: Japanese Prehistory, Jomon Culture, Excavations, Antiquities, Archeology, Archaeology, Anthropology, Prehistory Ancient, Environment Japan