Creating porcelain sculptures with extreme curvature or undulation presents a unique set of challenges that test the limits of both artistry and technical skill. One primary obstacle is the material's inherent fragility. Porcelain, while prized for its delicate beauty, is prone to cracking or warping during shaping, especially when intricate curves or deep undulations are attempted. Artists must carefully balance moisture content and work within narrow time windows to avoid structural failures.

Another critical challenge lies in the drying process. Uneven drying rates between thicker and thinner sections can lead to stress fractures, particularly in highly contoured designs. Sculptors often employ slow, controlled drying techniques or even segment their work to mitigate this risk.

The firing stage introduces further complications. Extreme curvatures may cause the piece to slump or distort under high temperatures, ruining hours of meticulous work. Precise kiln placement and custom supports are essential to maintain the sculpture's integrity during this volatile phase.

Additionally, achieving uniform glaze coverage on deeply undulated surfaces demands expert application methods. Pooling or thinning of glazes can mar the final appearance, requiring multiple test firings to perfect.

Despite these hurdles, master ceramicists continue pushing boundaries by developing innovative techniques like reinforced clay blends, computer-aided design for stress analysis, and specialized firing schedules. The resulting artworks stand as breathtaking testaments to human creativity triumphing over material constraints.