There's something about the bum that inspires the imagination and reaches deep inside the soul. Th e most transcendent examples can break a man's heart in two.

The newest muse of rear-end enthusiasts will likely be Brazilian Melanie Nunes Fronckowiak (pictured here), who was recently deemed the owner of the most beautiful female behind in the world. Nunes was chosen over contestants from 26 countries, winning nearly $19,000 (about £10k) as well as a modeling contract from underwear-maker and contest sponsor, Sloggi.

(Frenchman Saiba Bombote won the male prize, but really, who cares about him?)

Over 11,200 people sent photographs of their backsides to be entered in the contest, and their pictures received more than 31.8 million votes. Finalists made their case in a choreographed runway show in Paris.

Questioned Raised: Is Nunes' derriere truly that incredible? If yo u need help deciding, check out the images below.

Beautiful Bottoms 2008

    Brazil's Melanie Nunes Fronckowiak (R) and France's Saiba Bombote (L) pose after they won the female and male final of the "most beautiful bottom in the world" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. Some 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters

    Contestants pose as they compete during the final of the "Most Beautiful Bottom in the World" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. Some 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros ($18,769) prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters

    Melanie Nunes Fronckowiak of Brazil poses after she won the "Most Beautiful Bottom in the World" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. Some 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros ($18,769) prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters

    Contestants pose as they compete during the final of the "Most Beautiful Bottom in the World" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. Some 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros ($18,769) prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters

    A contestant competes during the final of the "Most Beautiful Bottom in the World" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. SSome 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros ($18,769) prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters

    Brazil's Melanie Nunes Fronckowiak (R) and France's Saiba Bombote (L) pose after they won the final of the "Most Beautiful Bottom in the World" competition in Paris November 12, 2008. Some 45 finalists from 26 different countries took part in the competition to win a modelling contract and 15,000 euros ($18,769) prize money. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE)

    Reuters