Creating porcelain sculptures with intricate undercuts is a delicate art form that demands precision and expertise. One of the most significant challenges is the fragility of porcelain itself. Its low plasticity makes it prone to cracking or collapsing during shaping, especially when forming delicate undercuts. Artists often struggle with maintaining structural integrity while achieving fine details.

Another hurdle is the drying process. Porcelain shrinks considerably as it dries, and uneven drying can lead to warping or breakage, particularly in complex undercut areas. Proper drying techniques, such as controlled humidity environments, are essential to mitigate this risk.

Firing presents its own set of difficulties. The high temperatures required to vitrify porcelain can cause undercuts to slump or distort. Sculptors must carefully plan support structures and firing schedules to preserve intricate details. Additionally, the glazing process can obscure fine undercuts if not applied with meticulous care.

Despite these challenges, mastering porcelain undercuts results in breathtaking artworks. Patience, practice, and understanding material behavior are key to overcoming these obstacles in this demanding yet rewarding ceramic art form.