Gustav Klimt's Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer, hidden from public view for decades, has become the most expensive modern artwork ever sold at auction, fetching $236.4 million in New York. The painting, a full-length depiction of the daughter of Klimt's devoted patrons, surpasses previous records and is now second only to Leonardo da Vinci's Salvator Mundi in auction history. Unlike Klimt's famous golden masterpieces, this portrait is marked by psychological depth and subtle aesthetic richness, created during the artist's final years. Once seized by Nazi officials and later held privately by Leonard Lauder, the painting's journey reflects both historical upheaval and enduring intrigue. Its unveiling and sale mark a significant moment, as the enigmatic canvas finally steps into the spotlight, inviting viewers to unravel its layered symbolism and artistry.