Porcelain sculpture collections in private hands represent some of the most exquisite and valuable ceramic artworks in existence. These carefully curated assemblages often surpass museum holdings in rarity and quality, preserved by discerning collectors who appreciate their historical and artistic significance.

Among the most notable is the Dresden Collection in Germany, featuring 18th-century Meissen masterpieces including Johann Joachim Kändler's iconic animal sculptures. Another extraordinary holding is the Qianlong Emperor's private porcelain collection, now dispersed among several private Asian collectors, containing imperial famille-rose masterpieces.

In America, the Rockefeller porcelain collection stands out, particularly its rare French Sèvres biscuit figures. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern collectors have assembled remarkable Ottoman Iznik pottery sculptures, including unique three-dimensional forms rarely seen in public institutions.

Contemporary collectors are increasingly focusing on modern porcelain artists like Edmund de Waal and Ai Weiwei, whose conceptual ceramic sculptures command record prices at auction. These private collections not only preserve ceramic heritage but often push the boundaries of porcelain as an artistic medium.

The true extent of these private holdings remains partially unknown, as collectors frequently loan pieces anonymously to exhibitions or keep them entirely private. This secrecy adds to the mystique surrounding the world's most exceptional private porcelain sculpture collections.