The restoration of historical bronze sculptures presents a complex interplay of artistic integrity, cultural preservation, and ethical responsibility. Among the most common dilemmas conservators face is the tension between preserving original material and restoring aesthetic coherence. Overzealous cleaning or patina removal can irreversibly erase centuries of natural aging that constitute part of the artwork's historical narrative.

Another significant challenge involves decisions about reconstructing missing elements. While modern technologies like 3D scanning enable precise recreations, such interventions raise questions about authenticity. Should a missing arm be reconstructed based on historical records, or should the sculpture remain incomplete as a testament to its journey through time?

The use of modern materials introduces further ethical complications. Synthetic resins and corrosion inhibitors may prolong a sculpture's lifespan but could compromise future conservation efforts or misrepresent the original craftsmanship. Conservators must weigh immediate preservation needs against long-term reversibility.

Perhaps the most profound dilemma emerges when addressing previous restoration attempts. Earlier interventions, now considered inappropriate, have themselves become part of the object's history. Removing them constitutes an erasure of conservation history, while preserving them may perpetuate incorrect interpretations.

These ethical challenges require conservators to balance scientific objectivity with cultural sensitivity, ensuring that restoration decisions respect both the physical artifact and its intangible cultural significance for future generations.