Preserving the tactile qualities of porcelain sculptures in digital representations presents several significant challenges. One of the primary difficulties is capturing the intricate surface textures that define these artworks. Traditional 3D scanning techniques often struggle to replicate the subtle variations in glaze, cracks, and hand-carved details that contribute to the sculpture's physical presence.

Another challenge lies in the limitations of digital rendering. While high-resolution imaging can visually approximate porcelain surfaces, simulating the way light interacts with its glossy or matte finishes remains complex. This affects the viewer's ability to "feel" the material through visual cues alone.

Material accuracy also poses a problem. Porcelain's unique combination of fragility and density creates specific tactile responses that are difficult to translate into digital formats. The weight distribution and temperature conductivity that contribute to the physical experience of handling a porcelain sculpture are nearly impossible to replicate virtually.

Color fidelity represents another hurdle. The translucent quality of porcelain and its interaction with pigments create depth and luminosity that current digital color spaces struggle to reproduce accurately. This affects both the visual and perceived tactile experience of the digital representation.

Lastly, the interactive limitations of digital platforms restrict the user's ability to explore the artwork from multiple angles with the same freedom as physical examination. While some advanced platforms offer rotation and zoom features, they cannot fully replicate the nuanced experience of manually exploring a sculpture's contours.

These challenges highlight the gap between physical artistry and digital preservation, emphasizing the need for continued technological advancement in 3D capture and rendering techniques to better serve cultural heritage conservation efforts.