La Poya. It's the first days of spring in the heart of the Swiss Alps, and the ceremonial of driving the cattle up to the summer pastures. - La poya - is about to commence.

The herd is assembled for the big trek. First come the cows, followed by the heifers and the bull, with sheep and goats bringing up the rear. Grazing the herd of upland pastures in summer fosters the production of the rich, high-quality milk that has established the worldwide reputation of Gruyere as a premier cheese-making region.

Impeccably groomed, decked with flowers and outfitted in their finest livery, the beasts climb at a stately pace, serenaded by the clang and jingle of bells large and small hung around their necks on exquisitely embroidered straps.

This great annual pageant has always inspired artists, and images of La Poya compel our admiration in paintings, the frescoes that adorn the walls of Gruyere houses, and paper decoupage art.

As a Swiss company, it was only natural that Caran d' Ache should wish, to evoke this most typical and picturesque of events. As a result, the Collection Privee is now enriched by the "La Poya" fountain pen.

Produced in an exclusive limited edition of 2002 pieces, each instrument is engraved with an individual owner number. The fountain pen is equipped with an ink pump, which can be replaced by two cartridges if desired. The jacket covering the matt black body is made from rhodium-coated solid silver patterned with the legendary procession of the cows. The rhodium finish protects all the metal parts from oxidation so that the instrument will never lose its silvery sheen.

The nib, available in three writing widths (Fine, Medium, and Broad) is made of rhodium-coated 18-carat gold, ensuring that it will adapt effortlessly to all styles of writing.

This magnificent creation with its unusual, exclusive motif is a harmonious blend of art and technology in the highest degree.

The jacket of the La poya pen bears the marks of that most delicate craftsmanship which is the hallmark of Edouard Jud, distinguished scion of a long line of artists.

After being cut out of a sheet of silver, each detail of the frieze is meticulously sculpted and finished by hand to ensure perfect relief and volume.

The superlative virtuosity and skill of Edouard Jud lends a unique delight and charm to each individual piece in the La poya series.

The cap of the pen is topped by an edelweiss, beloved symbol of Switzerland, with a diamond at its heart.

The clip, also made from rhodium-coated solid silver, is formed in the shape of the ladle used in cheese-making with Alpine milk from Gruyere cows.

The La poya writing instrument is presented in a distinctive round case with a frieze of black and white cows.