A very unusual piece of French military history. 
This is military doll made from a skittle, known as “quille” which translates to skittle, but also means freedom in French slang. 
When a soldier was nearing the end of his conscription, he would carve and paint one of these to represent himself in his uniform. On the day that the soldiers have completed their national service, they would march out carrying their Quilles! 
The number 57 would represent the yeqr and the other numbers and letters his battalion. 
This dolls uniform denotes that he was in Algeria, the cape would most likely be part of the winter uniform. 
This chap is in very good vintage condition for his almost 70 years, his cape has been nibbled a little by those pesky moths, but otherwise he has been a cherished momento. 
Measurements: 7cm diameter x 50cm Tall