You can add generated content as an image, content: url(). I don't know how well supported it is. You could also add it as a regular background image, background-image: url(). What I like about using a literal character is that it is more meaningful than "filename.gif." For content generated from a stylesheet maybe that's splitting hairs :) Your question jogged my memory: Coudal's Museum of Online Museums uses check marks in boxes—it's a sharp touch, especially for that long list. This is done with background images on the links within list items.