Artistic impression of Maryam al-Ijliya (10th century Aleppo)

Maryam Al-Ijliya has a very unusual story to tell. Unlike most other women of the 10th century, she took up a trade and is remembered today for her skilful instrument-making. Her father had been an apprentice in Baghdad to a famous maker of astrolabes - intricate devices for land navigation and time-telling. She also became his pupil.