Auction houses employ a meticulous process to evaluate and appraise porcelain sculptures, ensuring accurate valuations for collectors and investors. Key factors include the piece's age, as older and rarer items often command higher prices. Craftsmanship is another critical element, with hand-painted details, intricate designs, and the reputation of the artist or studio significantly influencing value.

Provenance, or the documented history of ownership, plays a vital role in authentication and valuation. Pieces with notable previous owners or historical significance tend to attract premium bids. Auction experts also assess the sculpture's condition, noting any repairs, chips, or wear that could diminish its value.

Market trends and recent sales of comparable pieces further guide appraisals. Auction houses rely on databases and specialist knowledge to gauge demand and set realistic estimates. By combining these factors, they provide a comprehensive appraisal that reflects the porcelain sculpture's true worth in the competitive art market.