ABSTRACT
This chapter offers an analysis of the consumption practices of Edward, fifth Lord Leigh and the Honourable Mary Leigh, successive owners of Stoneleigh Abbey in Warwick-shire. Together, they form an interesting case against which to test some of our assumptions about gender and luxury consumption. This analysis challenges conventional stereotypes of gender-based consumption by highlighting the complexities of consumption practices and the layered nature of gender identities. The chapter aims to bring a different perspective on the relationship between gender and consumption, one that challenges some of the stereotypes of dynastic husband and domestic wife. It begins by mapping out the overall spending patterns of Edward and Mary, and assess the importance of gender in relation to status, life-course and the character of the individual. It also examines the nature of their relationship with suppliers and thus with the urban economy.
