I think the engraving above is purely decorative but I'm no expert.
I've scrutinised the hilt in strong light with assorted magnifying devices and all I've found is another Lion Passant on the neck of the pommel (top of the grip):
I've noticed that maker's mark stamps can be almost deliberately hidden (my William Kinman colichemarde for example is almost impossible to locate) so does anyone have any tips?
Surely the maker of this superb hilt would want his identity advertised.