A judge in Paris is allowing an auction of dozens of Native American tribal masks to go ahead.

The sale has been opposed by the Hopi tribe and its supporters including actor Robert Redford. The U.S. government also aksed for the sale to be delayed.

The potentially landmark decision with transatlantic repercussions means the planned sale can go ahead in Paris later today.

The auctioneer argued that blocking the sale would have tremendous implications and potentially force French museums to empty their collections. Arizona’s Hopi Indians insist the masks are stolen spiritual vessels.

The striking masks feature surreal faces made from wood, leather, horse hair and feathers, painted in vivid colours.

The U.S. Ambassador to France asked the French government and the auction house to delay the sale.