This pen is an outstanding example of the innovative use of materials. It was inspired by the armour worn by knights in the medieval era of chivalry and is named for one of them, a famously elegant conqueror. The body of the Varius Ivanhoe Black is covered in a micro-woven coat of mail in deep black stainless steel (a Milanese sheath). Using a highly advanced technology, Caran d'Ache craftsmen have treated the steel to receive a black PVD coating that is both strong and beautiful. This process colours the fundamental structure of the steel giving it an extraordinary fineness that will remain eternally unchanged. The rhodium finish of the other elements of the fountain pen provides a sparkle and a protection worthy of its rarity.