The Lost Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to the ethical stewardship and repatriation of cultural and historical artifacts. Our mission is rooted in a profound belief that an object’s true value is found not in its possession, but in its connection to its rightful community of origin. We strive to correct historical misplacements, restoring cultural narratives and preserving heritage for future generations.

Our team comprises a global network of experts, including anthropologists, historians, engineers, and archivists. We meticulously research each artifact, working to establish its provenance and understand its significance. We specialize in handling items whose displacement has resulted in complex, often unexplained, circumstances—the very objects that fall through the cracks of conventional archaeology and curation.

The Dampier Spyglass exhibit is a testament to our unique approach. For centuries, this artifact remained an enigma, defying traditional analysis. Our work on the Spyglass exemplifies our commitment to using innovative methods and external expertise to solve the world's most intriguing historical puzzles. It is a story we are proud to tell, as it reflects our dedication to not just preserving history, but actively restoring it.

We continue our vital work, driven by the knowledge that every artifact we return brings us one step closer to understanding the human story.