Front cover image for The rise of civilization in East Asia : the archaeology of China, Korea and Japan : with 217 illustrations

The rise of civilization in East Asia : the archaeology of China, Korea and Japan : with 217 illustrations

"Civilization in East Asia is nearly 4,0000 years old, and its origins lie deep in the prehistoric past. In this acclaimed study Gina L. Barnes draws together research on East Asian archaeology and early history to chart the critical developments that culminated in the emergency of the region in the eighth century as a coherent entity, with a shared religion (Buddhism), state philosophy (Confucianism) and bureaucratic structure. The narrative begins over a million years ago, when early humans first colonized the Far East, and concludes with the emergence of civilization in what is now China, Korea and Japan. Copious photographs and drawings -- from vibrant Jomon ceramics to the first Chinese Emperor's terracotta army -- complement the text. This is an indispensable work for anyone interested in ancient or modern East Asia, and a pioneering account of the cultural origins of an increasingly influential region of the world. Book jacket."--BOOK JACKET

Print Book, English, 1999
Thames and Hudson, New York, N.Y., 1999