This Peninsular/Waterloo period sword bears the early 1803 pattern lion head hilt, with the ‘GR’  initials and flaming grenade (showing the owner to have been an officer with a Grenadier Company). The grip in beautiful blue/grey shagreen with typical ‘triple wire’ wrapping. The lower section of the hilt assembly with floral style decorations.

The curved blue & gilt blade beautifully decorated with floral motifs, running down the first 10" of the blade length ( both obverse and reverse). In addition, the obverse with post-1801 Royal Coat-of-Arms, and scrolls bearing the engraved blade makers name, 'Hunt & Potter'. A further 6" of the blade is finished in engraving only (manufactured without a blue & gilt application), this continues the theme of floral decorations, along with  crossed flags, cannons etc. The reverse has the first 10" of blue & gilt with floral decoration and the 'crowned G.R'. The etched 6" section with floral decoration and crossed flags. 

The scabbard in dark brown / black leather without decoration and with gilted brass top, centre, and bottom mounts. The mounts beautifully cut with ornate patterns. The top mount bearing a fully engraved manufacturer’s cartouche, 'Cattle & Barber York'. The sword is surprisingly long for this period, and certainly for an owner standing a good 6' tall.

Condition report: The hilt in perfect condition with just mercuric gilt plate loss to the lion head area. Grip in perfect condition free from cracking or damage, the shagreen looking fresh and vibrant. The wire wrapping remains fine and tight. The blade (which still retains its original brown leather washer) survives in very good to excellent condition. Approximately 90% of the original blue & gilt remaining throughout. The rest of the blade with good polish and free from any unsightly rust or pitting. Above average condition for a blade which is over 200 years old. The leather scabbard remaining fairly supple and complete, but typically needs to be handled with care once the sword has been removed. The scabbard mounts retaining much of their original mercuric gilt plating. Both rings in place. 

Historical background to the firm of Cattle & Barber, York: The company started by Robert Cattle & James Barber, was founded in 1791. They soon gained a reputation as the premier goldsmiths / silversmiths in York, with their premises situated in Coney Street. Today, Cattle & Barber Georgian silverware is particularly prized.

Historical background to the blademakers Hunt & Potter: John Hunt and and Edward Potter went into partnership from 1805 through to 1807 with premises at 15 Vere St. Clare Market (Nr. Strand) London. From 1808 the partnership was dissolved, and Edward Potter continued the business under his name alone from 1808 through to 1826.

 Manufacture date: Based on the above information, we can date the manufacture of this sword to between 1805 and 1807 (just a two year manufacturing window, and as such could be the only surviver to bear these dual names).

 Additional notes: The sword was probably manufactured as a complete piece by Hunt & Potter, as a commission from Cattle & Barber. It remains unknown at this time, if Cattle & Barber held a stock of military equipments for sale at their York premises, or if this was a single commission piece for a valued client.