a leaf of a fig tree

a representation of such a leaf positioned so as to conceal the genitals on a statue, etc

Nobody noticed their [the statues’] nakedness before … nobody can help noticing it now, the fig-leaf makes it so conspicuous — Mark Twain

something that conceals or camouflages, usu inadequately or dishonestly

The opt-out clause is a fig leaf that the Prime Minister is clutching … to cover the serious disagreements in his party — Hansard