This book illustrates 67 dogu, the most important of which have been designated in Japan as either National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. In addition to the descriptions of the pieces themselves, this book explores the meaning of these mysterious figures. Simon Kaner draws on the knowledge of archaeologists and helps us discover dogu for ourselves. Doi Takashi traces the physical evolution of dogu across the Japanese archipelago, while Harada Masayuki focuses on the spiritual aspects of dogu. Douglass Bailey investigates the ritual function of dogu in Jomon society and Nicole Coolidge Rousmaniere shows the impact of dogu on modern art and popular culture. In the twentieth century, dogu became a source of artistic inspiration, and more recently dogu have featured in manga comics and PlayStation games. It is testimony to the power of dogu and the creativity of the Jomon period that dogu are not only emblematic of prehistoric Japan and entrancing works of art, but are also protagonists in contemporary culture.