
Scaling up a small porcelain sculpture to a larger size presents several unique challenges that artists and designers must carefully address. One primary concern is material stress—porcelain, while elegant, becomes more fragile as size increases. The larger surface area and weight distribution create structural vulnerabilities that may lead to cracking or collapse during firing or display.
Proportional balance is another critical issue. What appears harmonious in a small piece may look distorted when enlarged, requiring careful recalibration of details and negative spaces. The drying and firing processes also become more complex, as thicker sections dry unevenly, increasing the risk of warping or thermal shock in the kiln.
Additionally, the artist must reconsider surface textures and fine details. Delicate patterns that work on a small scale might appear overly simplistic or lose definition when expanded. Finally, logistical challenges emerge, from handling heavier pieces to securing stable bases for tall or expansive designs. Mastering these scaling challenges requires both technical expertise and artistic adaptability.