Hondius' polar world map, Poli Artici, incorporated the most accurate and complete cartographic knowledge from the the then-recent discoveries of the 1630s. Engraved in 1636, this important map was published in several editions and was the contemporary reference for the north polar regions.

The map is classically and elaborately adorned with sailing ships, whales, walrus, fishermen and harpooners. Its extraordinary border provides a comprehensive pictorial narrative of early whaling and its on-the-spot 'processing' of food and oil products.