Appraising antique bronze sculptures is a complex process fraught with challenges that even seasoned experts may struggle to overcome. One of the primary hurdles is verifying authenticity, as sophisticated forgeries can mimic age and craftsmanship with alarming accuracy. The patina—a surface layer formed over centuries—often becomes a focal point of debate, requiring advanced scientific analysis to distinguish natural oxidation from artificial treatments.

Another significant challenge lies in determining provenance. Without clear historical records, establishing a sculpture's origin and ownership trail becomes speculative, directly impacting its market value. Additionally, fluctuating market trends and subjective aesthetic preferences make consistent valuation difficult, as demand for specific styles or periods can vary dramatically.

Condition assessment also presents obstacles. Restoration work, whether skilled or amateurish, can alter a piece's value, while environmental damage like corrosion or structural weakness may not be immediately visible. Finally, the scarcity of comparable sales data for rare pieces complicates price benchmarking, leaving appraisers to rely heavily on experience and intuition. Navigating these challenges requires a blend of technical expertise, historical knowledge, and access to specialized tools—a combination few possess in full measure.