The one-bedroom, two-bathroom flat, located in the heart of Manhattan's galleries, is currently owned by Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei.

According to Realtor.com®, the loft-style flat last changed hands in 2008 for $1,695,000.

Ai Weiwei is known for his social activism and his contemporary work in fields as diverse as sculpture, photography and public installations. At home, however, he kept it austere and simple.

This pre-war flat on the eighth floor offers approximately 1,400 square feet of open living space.

There are 12-foot ceilings, an impressive row of south-facing windows, and a small alcove in the main room that could be used as a home office.

Hardwood floors run throughout the flat and the kitchen is furnished with Bosch and Liebherr appliances and has a stunning bright blue island and cabinets.

A guest bathroom, laundry room off the entrance, plus a large bedroom and bathroom with gorgeous tiles complete this urban retreat.

The building is packed with amenities including a courtyard with reflecting pool, a spectacular roof terrace, 24/7 doorman, a screening cinema, a fully equipped gym, and private storage in the basement.

Ai was born in Beijing but has lived abroad for many years and currently resides in Portugal.

He creates art in traditional media such as marble, paint and ceramics, as well as with everyday objects such as sunflower seeds, bicycles and wood.