Auction houses employ a meticulous process to determine the starting bids for rare porcelain sculptures, balancing historical value, market demand, and expert appraisal. The initial bid is often influenced by factors such as provenance, condition, rarity, and recent sales of comparable pieces. Specialists conduct thorough research, consulting archives and previous auction records to establish a baseline. Market trends and collector interest also play a critical role, as high demand can drive starting bids upward. Additionally, auction houses may adjust bids based on pre-auction inquiries to gauge buyer enthusiasm. Ultimately, the goal is to set a competitive yet realistic starting point that attracts bidders while ensuring the artwork's value is honored.