What is this supposed to mean, “ well she’s not ugly” from exes girlfriend?

[Anonymous]

My ex told me he showed his girlfriend, ex now, a photo of me he took (he was a photographer) and he told her who I am and that I model. She said “well she’s not ugly” in response. I always wondered why girls do that especially in this context. Is this because I’m an ex or some sort of insecurity? Or what did she mean? He said the way she said it and her look was her not wanting to compliment me. So she forced something out to downplay my looks. I actually don’t even know what it meant. Him even telling me makes no sense.

[LazerBean]

It depends on if she had a positive tone or a passive aggressive tone.

[Vendela]

First you need to question why he still keeps in contact with her in the first place. Red flag

[Asker]

I’m the ex actually. She was dating him when she said that. When they broke up he told me what she said. I’m not sure why he would. But yes he’s literally a walking red flag. That’s why he’s an ex hahaha

[Anonymous]

Meaning you're beautiful. Some guys say that also. Just the indirect way I guess lol

[Opinion Owner]

I'm more curious why he felt the need to show her the picture. She probably didn't even care to see it? lol

[Asker]

And then proceeded to tell me about it. Yeah I have no clue either what his intentions are hahaha they are never pure. I guess his excuse was he was showing her his portfolio because he’s a photographer.

[Avicenna]

Pay no attention to her. It was grudging praise, and who cares what sind ex thinks about your looks?

[TwoToTooTutu2]

Girls have a better understanding of what you all do than men. You all leave my head spinning sometimes

[spartan55]

Why would you even care about this?

[Anonymous]

Does it matter?

[Asker]

It’s curiosity that’s why I asked haha :)