Creating large porcelain sculptures requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to structural integrity. The most common types of supports or armatures used include:

1. Metal Wire Armatures: Stainless steel or aluminum wires are often used due to their flexibility and strength. They provide a lightweight skeleton for the sculpture, helping maintain shape during drying and firing.

2. Wooden Supports: Temporary wooden frameworks are ideal for supporting wet clay during the initial stages. However, they must be removed before firing, as wood burns away in the kiln.

3. Ceramic Pillars or Props: Kiln-safe ceramic supports are essential for holding weight during high-temperature firing. These are often custom-made to fit the sculpture’s contours.

4. Foam or Cardboard Fillers: Lightweight and removable, these materials help reduce clay weight during construction but are discarded before firing.

5. Internal Clay Struts: Thick clay ribs or walls built into hollow sculptures add stability without external supports, ensuring the piece withstands the kiln’s heat.

Choosing the right support depends on the sculpture’s size, design, and firing requirements. Proper armatures prevent cracking, warping, or collapse, ensuring the final piece retains its artistic vision.