Final answer:
Hans Holbein the Younger is the artist known for his realistic portraits of King Henry VIII and the English royal family. His work embodies the Northern Renaissance's detailed realism and symbolic complexity, exemplified in his renowned works such as the portrait of Henry VIII and 'The Ambassadors'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The northern European artist famous for his realistic portraits, including those of the royal family of King Henry VIII, is Hans Holbein the Younger. He was known for his sharp and detailed approach to portraiture, which can be observed in his 1540 portrait of Henry VIII, now thought to be an original Holbein work, based on recent research. Holbein's influence extended beyond portraits as he also painted textiles, designed stained glass windows, and illustrated books, showcasing his versatile artistic talents in the Northern Renaissance.
Holbein's painting The Ambassadors is another example highlighting his ability to combine realism with symbolic elements. The painting features two figures surrounded by scientific instruments and a distorted skull, known as an anamorphic skull. This careful blending of detailed realism and complex symbolism became a signature aspect of Holbein's work and contributed to his fame during the Renaissance period.