Restoring heavily damaged porcelain sculptures presents unique challenges that demand meticulous expertise. The fragility of ceramic materials amplifies risks at every stage, beginning with structural instability – hairline fractures or missing fragments can compromise the entire piece during handling. Material compatibility poses another critical concern, as modern adhesives or fillers may chemically react with aged glazes, causing discoloration or further deterioration over time.

Historical authenticity is perpetually at stake; overzealous repairs can erase valuable patina or alter the artist's original intent. Temperature and humidity fluctuations during restoration may trigger new cracks in thermally sensitive pieces. Additionally, improper cleaning techniques risk eroding delicate surface details or centuries-old glaze layers.

Professional conservators mitigate these risks through non-invasive diagnostics like X-ray imaging to map internal damage before physical intervention. They employ reversible materials and document each step to preserve the object's provenance. The ethical dilemma of "how much to restore" remains contentious, as excessive intervention may diminish an artifact's archaeological value while insufficient repair fails to stabilize it.

Successful restoration balances scientific precision with artistic sensitivity, recognizing that every porcelain sculpture carries irreplaceable cultural narratives in its fractured fragments.