[Jim McDougall]

Returning to the original post and question by Rob.

What artisan made this hilt ?

The tradition attributing this hilt to Benvenuto Cellini (d1571) is of course incorrect, but of course the neoclassical and Biblical themes may have inspired the maker, who it appears was likely Robert South. He was leading cutler appointed to James I and later held office under Charles I. He was highly esteemed first half of 17th c. but it seems curious that while producing work for the Royal House, he produced this hilt for Hampden who was apparently Parliamentarian during the later troubled times. Perhaps that would put the date of this sword earlier c. 1605-10?

Hayward (1973) Arms & Armor Annual, "English Swords 1600-1650" also notes South was likely the importer of the prestigious blades from Solingen maker Clemens Horn.
Hayward also notes little is known of South, but in 1603 he was a member of the yeomanry of the Cutlers Co.

In these highly detailed and high station regalia type swords it seems these kinds of themes and subjects were well known. It is unclear why this hilt would be attributed to Cellini, though perhaps the theme detail was from work by him.
It would take much more research into the works of Cellini to discover why South close this theme.