The thing is a doozy.

Under the headline Sophisticated Penthouse Duplex, the brokers describe the villain's lair thusly: "Perched atop a distinguished white-glove prewar cooperative, this 9 into 7 room duplex penthouse affords spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. The beautiful residence boasts an impressive Gallery with an elliptical staircase, a grand Living Room with triple exposures and an elegantly proportioned Dining Room. These sun-flooded rooms feature French doors that open onto a tremendous wrap-around planted and irrigated terrace."

It gets better: "Adjacent, the large and well-appointed chef's Kitchen incorporates a Breakfast Room and Staff Room with bath. Downstairs the private quarters include a very gracious corner Master Suite with a huge walk-in closet and an over-sized marble bathroom. Beyond there is a cozy Library featuring custom built-ins and an en-suite bathroom plus another Bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and ample closet space."

And the finale: "Offered in superb condition, the impeccably renovated apartment incorporates herringbone hardwood floors, hand-carved moldings and four wood-burning fireplaces."

Besides all that excellent writing, be sure to check out the duplex's interior photos and, better yet, a floor plan that shows off the bar in the hallway on the lower level.

mabelson@observer.com