Editors' Note

As we write this note in August of 2021, the global Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact communities in Asia and the Pacific Islands. We offer our support to our global community and far-flung colleagues, but also note that archaeological research and publication has survived despite a year in which many countries have been under quarantine and lockdown. This resilience and determination are well represented within the pages of this journal. This issue (volume 61, number 1) of Asian Perspectives spans the width and depth of Asian and Pacific Island prehistory. Beginning with a study of a copper hoard in the Upper Sindh valley of Pakistan (Biagi and Vidale), and an analysis of bronze mirrors from Xinjiang, China (Guo), these contributions dive deep into the material culture of West and East Asia. This issue also examines the complexities of settled life, with two articles focused on Neolithic and Early Metal Age communities of northeastern China (Zhou et al.) and West Sulawesi (Anggraeni). Pacific Island prehistory is also examined via two studies focused on Lapita mortuary practices in Vanuatu (Valentin et al.), and the economic, ritual, and defensive functions of remote interior fortifications in the Marquesas Islands (Molle and Marolleau). All of these articles offer a wealth of information and analysis, and we are proud to have them assembled within a single issue. The authors also represent the diversity of scholars that typify the Asian Perspectives readership, hailing from all parts of Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.

This issue includes reviews of six recent books published in English and German. These volumes and their reviews cover shrines and maritime networks in India and Southeast Asia (Ray, reviewed by Manguin), cave tombs in the Mustang District of Nepal (Angela, reviewed by Aldenderfer), lost-wax metalwork in Bronze-age China (Peng, reviewed by Liu), the bronze weapons of the Qin Dynasty terracotta warriors (Xiuzhen, reviewed by Wagner), the splendor of the royal court in Han period China (Miller, reviewed by Prüch), and monuments and economic networks of the Western Pacific (Hermann et al., reviewed by Kahn).

We have high hopes for the future health of the Asia and Pacific region and encourage prospective authors from all parts of this broad region to submit their manuscripts for consideration. We thank our production staff, reviewers, authors, and Editorial Board for their continued support.