The bizarre ritual, which has made international headlines, was organised by Catland Books, an occult bookstore in New York.

An eyewitness writing in The Independent said a “mass hexing” took place over the sound of Catholic protesters gathered outside.

Dakota Bracciale, co-owner of Catland Book, described the event as “sort of coming together of solidarity on many different levels”.

Ahead of his appointment earlier this month, Justice Kavanaugh was dogged by allegations of sexual assault and sexual misconduct from three women.

US President Donald Trump described the allegations as “false things that were said about a very fine man”.