Tachi with top of saya wrapped with ito.

The "itomaki-no-tachi" (tachi with lacing on the scabbard) came into being during the "nambokucho" period (1334 ~ 1392 ad.), through necessity. The use of armor during this period was very popular. The "itomaki" was developed to prevent abrasion damage to the saya, the upper 1/3 was wrapped (maki) in the same manor as the tsuka, with fine silk lacing (ito`). The lower 2/3, was occasionally protected by a "shiri-zaya" (protective boot), these were most frequently made of "bear fur", rarely; elephant hide, and even leopard fur, are seen (very desirable, if original).